Harbor
'hɑːrbər
Definitions
2 meaningsA protected area of water, often with a man-made structure, used for sheltering ships and boats.
'hɑːrbər
A sheltered place for ships and boats.
The cruise ship entered the harbor at sunset.
💡 Simply: It's like a parking lot for boats! It's a safe place where boats can stay when they're not sailing. Imagine a big bathtub for the ocean.
👶 For kids: A safe place where boats can stay and park.
More Examples
Fishing boats crowded the harbor early in the morning.
The harbor provided a safe haven during the hurricane.
How It's Used
"The ships were safely docked in the harbor during the storm."
"The city is located on a beautiful natural harbor."
To keep or hold (a thought or feeling, typically a negative one) in one's mind; or, to provide shelter for.
'hɑːrbər
To give shelter to; to keep or hold in the mind.
She harbored a secret desire to travel the world.
💡 Simply: To hold onto something in your mind, like a secret, feeling or someone that is seeking help. It's also like helping a friend stay at your home.
👶 For kids: To give a safe place to hide or to keep a thought or feeling inside your mind.
More Examples
The rebels were suspected of harboring weapons.
He continues to harbor resentment towards his childhood bully.
How It's Used
"He harbored a grudge against his former boss."
"The city was accused of harboring criminals."
Synonyms
Idioms & expressions
harbor of refuge
A safe place to go, especially during a difficult time.
"The community center became a harbor of refuge for those displaced by the storm."
From Old English *herebeorg* (army shelter), from *here* (army) + *beorg* (shelter, refuge), related to Old Norse *herbergi* (lodging). The meaning evolved to encompass places of shelter for ships.
The word 'harbor' has been used since the 12th century to refer to a place of shelter. Its figurative meaning, relating to harboring feelings, developed later.
Memory tip
Think of a BAR (like in a pub) where ships can rest and be safe.