Harbor: meaning, definitions and examples

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harbor

 

[ ˈhɑːrbər ]

Noun / Verb
Context #1 | Noun

in port

A place on the coast where ships can seek shelter, especially one protected from rough waters by piers, jetties, and other artificial structures.

Synonyms

dock, marina, port.

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Word Description / Examples
harbor

A sheltered area of water where ships and boats can anchor safely, typically providing protection from harsh weather.

  • The boats sought refuge in the harbor during the storm
  • The harbor is always busy with fishermen bringing in their catch
port

A town or city with a harbor where ships load or unload, particularly used for international trade and travel.

  • The port is a major hub for importing goods
  • She arrived at the port early to catch her ferry
dock

A structure extending alongshore or out from the shore into a body of water, to which boats can be moored.

  • The passengers disembarked at the dock
  • Workers were loading cargo onto the ship at the dock
marina

A specially-designed harbor with moorings and supplies for yachts and small boats.

  • They kept their sailboat at a local marina
  • The marina offers various facilities, including fuel and water

Examples of usage

  • The ship entered the harbor to seek refuge from the storm.
  • The harbor was bustling with activity as ships came and went.
Context #2 | Verb

hide

To keep a feeling or thought in one's mind without expressing it.

Examples of usage

  • She harbored a secret desire to become a singer.
  • He harbored suspicions about his colleague's intentions.

Translations

Translations of the word "harbor" in other languages:

🇵🇹 porto

🇮🇳 बंदरगाह

🇩🇪 Hafen

🇮🇩 pelabuhan

🇺🇦 гавань

🇵🇱 port

🇯🇵 

🇫🇷 port

🇪🇸 puerto

🇹🇷 liman

🇰🇷 항구

🇸🇦 ميناء

🇨🇿 přístav

🇸🇰 prístav

🇨🇳 港口

🇸🇮 pristanišče

🇮🇸 höfn

🇰🇿 айлақ

🇬🇪 ნავსადგური

🇦🇿 liman

🇲🇽 puerto

Etymology

The word 'harbor' originated from the Old English word 'herebeorg', which meant 'shelter' or 'lodging'. It has been used in English since the 12th century to refer to a place of safety for ships. Harbors have played a crucial role in maritime trade and transportation throughout history, providing shelter for ships from storms and a base for loading and unloading cargo.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #4,926, this word represents useful upper-intermediate vocabulary. Understanding and using it will help you express more complex ideas effectively.