Harbour

Definition

Harbour is a place on the coast where ships may moor in shelter, especially one protected from rough water by piers, jetties, and other artificial structures.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈhɑrbər/
• Respelling: HAR-bər (with "HAR" as in "car" and "bər" as in "butter")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈhɑːbə/
• Respelling: HAAR-buh (with "HAAR" as in "car" and "buh" as in "sofa")

In both dialects, "harbour" places the primary stress on the first syllable, "HAR" or "HAAR." The pronunciation is similar across both American and British English, focusing on the clear articulation of "HAR-bər" in American English and "HAAR-buh" in British English.

Etymology

The word "harbour" stems from the Old English word "herebeorg," which translates to "shelter, refuge." It has close ties with the Middle Dutch "herberge" and Old High German "heriberga," which both signify "hostel, inn."

Derivatives

• Harbourage (noun)
• Harbourmaster (noun)
• Harborage (noun)
• Harbouring (verb, present participle)
• Harbourful (adjective)

Synonyms

• Port
• Haven
• Anchorage

Antonyms

• Open sea
• Wilderness
• Expanse

Usage

The term "harbour" is commonly used in maritime contexts to describe places where vessels can be safely moored. It is also used metaphorically to refer to a place of refuge or shelter. In verb form, it can mean to provide shelter or to hold onto something, especially thoughts or feelings.

Related Terms

• Dock
• Marina
• Quay
• Wharf
• Berth

Detailed Definition

Noun

• Sheltered Water Area: A body of water protected from the open sea, providing a safe area for docking and anchoring vessels.
  • Example: The ships sought refuge in the harbour during the storm.

• Facilities for Ships: Infrastructure, such as docks, piers, and warehouses, that supports the mooring, loading, and unloading of ships.
  • Example: The harbour is equipped with cranes and warehouses for handling cargo.

• Place of Refuge: A metaphorical or literal place that offers safety and protection.
  • Example: The harbour served as a safe haven for sailors during the war.

Verb:

• To Provide Shelter: To give shelter or refuge to someone or something.
  • Example: The coast guard harboured the stranded fishermen.

• To Hold onto: To keep or hold onto, especially in the context of feelings, thoughts, or grudges.
  • Example: She harboured resentment towards her former employer.

Note: The term "harbour" has maritime roots and is central to naval and shipping activities. Its applications are vast, spanning both literal and metaphorical contexts. The spelling "harbor" is more common in American English, whereas "harbour" is the preferred spelling in British English.