Harbor

/ˈhɑːr.bər/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A sheltered body of water where ships, boats, and barges can dock or anchor.

The fishing boats returned safely to the harbor after a long day at sea.

A place of refuge or safety.

The old mansion served as a haven, a harbor for those seeking shelter from the storm.

verb

To provide shelter or refuge to someone or something.

The community harbored a family of refugees during the winter months.

To keep a thought or feeling in one's mind.

She harbored doubts about his intentions, even though she didn't voice them.

To conceal or protect, especially something illegal.

The suspect was accused of harboring a fugitive in his home.

Middle English herberge, from Old French herberge, from herbergier meaning 'to shelter, to lodge'.

In harbor

At a port or safe place.

To harbor a grudge

To hold onto a feeling of resentment.

Safe harbor

A place of safety or refuge.

berth

A designated location in a harbor for docking ships.

dock

A structure where vessels are moored.

mooring

A place where a boat or ship is secured.

To keep someone or something hidden.

He was harboring a fugitive from the law.

To have a crush on someone secretly.

She's been harboring a crush on her coworker for months.