Dockhouse Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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dockhouse
[ˈdɑkˌhaʊs ]
Definition
maritime structure
A dockhouse is a structure located at a dock or harbor which serves as a facility for loading and unloading ships, often incorporating administrative offices and spaces for maritime operations. It can also provide support services for vessels, such as maintenance and storage.
Synonyms
harbor office, port building, shipping terminal.
Examples of usage
- The dockhouse was bustling with activity as workers prepared for the ship's arrival.
- We visited the dockhouse to meet with the captain before the journey.
- The dockhouse provides all the necessary facilities for cargo operations.
Translations
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Origin of 'dockhouse'
The term 'dockhouse' is a compound word formed from 'dock' and 'house'. The word 'dock' originates from the Old English 'docce', which means a 'shelter for ships', while 'house' comes from the Old English 'hus', meaning a dwelling place. The usage of the term in maritime contexts dates back to the development of trade in ports, where designated areas with structures were required to facilitate the loading and unloading of goods. Over time, as commerce expanded, the design and functionality of dockhouses evolved to include administrative offices, repair workshops, and other essential services necessary for the operational efficiency of maritime activities. The maritime industry heavily influenced urban development, leading to specialized facilities such as dockhouses becoming central to shipping routes around the world.