Berth: meaning, definitions and examples

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berth

 

[ bəːθ ]

Noun / Verb
Context #1 | Noun

on a ship

A bed or sleeping accommodation on a ship or train.

Synonyms

bunk, cabin, compartment.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
berth

This can be used to describe a docking space for a ship as well. It's the same word as the sleeping berth but in a different context.

  • The ship was docked at berth 4.
  • They reserved a berth for the sailboat in the marina.
bunk

Typically used to refer to a simple bed, often stacked in pairs, commonly found in military, dormitories, or ships.

  • He chose the top bunk in the dorm.
  • Sailors slept in their bunks during the storm.
cabin

Refers to a private room or compartment on a ship, train, or an airplane, usually offering more comfort and privacy.

  • They enjoyed their stay in a luxurious cabin on the cruise.
  • She booked a cabin for the overnight train journey.
compartment

Used to describe a separated section or division within a larger enclosed area, often used in trains and ships.

  • We stored our luggage in the train compartment.
  • The first-class compartment was more spacious.

Examples of usage

  • The captain's berth was located on the upper deck of the ship.
  • I reserved a berth in the second-class cabin for the overnight journey.
Context #2 | Noun

parking

A space in a ship, train, or other transport to accommodate a particular item or category of cargo.

Synonyms

dock, mooring, pier.

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Word Description / Examples
berth

As mentioned previously, it refers to a ship's assigned position at a port or docking station.

  • The fishing boat found a temporary berth at the small marina.
  • After sailing for days, the yacht finally reached its berth.
dock

A dock is a structure extending alongshore or out from the shore into a body of water, to which boats may be moored. It can also refer to the act of bringing a ship or vessel into such a structure.

  • The cargo was unloaded at the dock.
  • We watched the ship dock at sunrise.
mooring

Mooring refers to the act of securing a ship to a particular place using ropes or anchors. It can also denote the place where the ship is secured.

  • The captain checked the mooring lines before leaving.
  • The storm broke the yacht's mooring.
pier

A pier is a structure leading out from the shore into the water, typically supported by pillars and used as a landing place for boats. Often used for recreational purposes.

  • We walked along the pier and watched the sun set.
  • Fishermen often gather at the end of the pier.

Examples of usage

  • The car was parked in a designated berth at the port.
  • The ship had enough berths for all the containers.
Context #3 | Verb

ship

To bring a ship into its berth.

Synonyms

anchor, dock, moor.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
berth

This word is often used to refer to a place where a ship is secured in a port. It can also mean a place to sleep in a vehicle like a train or ship, or metaphorically, it can mean a job or position.

  • The captain managed to secure a berth for the night at the busy port.
  • I booked a lower berth on the sleeper train to ensure a comfortable journey.
  • She had a safe berth as the head of the department.
dock

Dock is commonly used to describe a platform extending from the shore where ships are loaded or repaired. It also refers to the action of bringing a ship into a dock.

  • The cargo ship was loaded with goods while it was in the dock.
  • The captain skillfully docked the ship despite strong winds.
moor

Moor is used to describe securing a ship or boat to a fixed object or in a specific location, usually using ropes or anchors. This term is more specific to the action than 'anchor'.

  • We decided to moor the sailboat to the pier for the night.
  • The fisherman expertly moored his boat in the small harbor.
anchor

Anchor is typically used when talking about stopping a ship and holding it in place in water. It can also be used metaphorically to describe something or someone that provides stability and support.

  • The ship dropped its anchor in the calm waters of the bay.
  • In difficult times, her family acted as an anchor, providing much-needed support.

Examples of usage

  • The crew skillfully berthed the ship at the dock.
  • The captain berthed the vessel without any issues.

Translations

Translations of the word "berth" in other languages:

🇵🇹 beliche

🇮🇳 बर्थ

🇩🇪 Koje

🇮🇩 tempat tidur

🇺🇦 койка

🇵🇱 koja

🇯🇵 寝台 (shindai)

🇫🇷 couchette

🇪🇸 litera

🇹🇷 ranza

🇰🇷 침대 (chimdae)

🇸🇦 سرير

🇨🇿 lůžko

🇸🇰 lôžko

🇨🇳 卧铺 (wòpù)

🇸🇮 ležišče

🇮🇸 koja

🇰🇿 койка

🇬🇪 საწოლი

🇦🇿 yataq yeri

🇲🇽 litera

Etymology

The word 'berth' originated from Middle English 'berthe', meaning 'a place for sleeping'. It has been used in nautical contexts since the 15th century, referring to a bed or sleeping accommodation on a ship. Over time, its meaning expanded to include a designated space for cargo on a ship or train. The verb form 'berth' emerged later in the context of bringing a ship into its place at a dock. The word has retained its maritime connotations through the centuries.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #13,516, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.