Harboured: meaning, definitions and examples

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harboured

 

[ ˈhɑːbərd ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

past tense

Harboured is the past tense of harbour, which means to provide shelter or refuge. It can also refer to holding or keeping within one's mind or heart, such as emotions or thoughts. In a physical sense, it might describe a place where ships or boats are docked, offering them safety from the elements. The term can also imply nurturing an idea or feeling, allowing it to grow within oneself.

Synonyms

contained, nurtured, protected, sheltered

Examples of usage

  • The small town harboured many secrets.
  • The refugees were harboured by the local community.
  • She harboured a deep love for her hometown.
  • He harboured doubts about the project's success.

Translations

Translations of the word "harboured" in other languages:

🇵🇹 abrigado

🇮🇳 आश्रय दिया

🇩🇪 untergebracht

🇮🇩 menyimpan

🇺🇦 притулок

🇵🇱 schroniony

🇯🇵 収容された

🇫🇷 abrité

🇪🇸 albergado

🇹🇷 barındırılan

🇰🇷 수용된

🇸🇦 مأوى

🇨🇿 ukrytý

🇸🇰 prijatý

🇨🇳 庇护的

🇸🇮 zavarovan

🇮🇸 hýst

🇰🇿 қабылданған

🇬🇪 შესაფარებული

🇦🇿 sığınacaq verilən

🇲🇽 alojado

Etymology

The word 'harbour' originates from the Old English 'herebeorg,' meaning a place of shelter or refuge. Its roots can be traced back to Germanic languages, particularly the Old Norse term 'herbergi' which also refers to a place for shelter. Over time, the spelling evolved into the Middle English 'herberwe' before becoming the modern term 'harbour.' The verb form emerged in usage to describe the act of offering shelter, particularly in maritime contexts where ships would seek safe haven from storms and rough seas. Throughout history, harbours have played crucial roles in trade, commerce, and migration, serving as vital points of contact between different cultures and economies. Today, the term encompasses both literal and metaphorical meanings, reflecting its rich etymological heritage.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #26,170, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.