Pronunciation

/ˈhɑːbər/

Definitions

• Noun: A sheltered area of water where boats and ships can be moored safely; a port. For example: “The sailors sought refuge in a natural harbour during the storm.”

  • Also used metaphorically: A place that provides shelter or protection. “This old house had been a harbour for many stray animals over the years.”

• Verb: (UK spelling: harbour, US spelling: harbor)

  • To give shelter or refuge to someone or something, often secretly or in spite of legal restrictions. For example: “The family decided to harbour the refugees until they could find a safer place.”
  • To hold onto or keep something within oneself, especially feelings or thoughts. For example: “She harboured resentment against her colleague for taking credit for her work.”

Phrases

• “Harbour master”: The official in charge of a port or harbour.
• “To harbour suspicions”: To have doubts or mistrust about someone or something without expressing them openly.
• “Safe harbour”: A provision or regulation offering protection from liability under certain conditions, often in business or legal contexts.

Example Sentences

• Noun: “The bustling harbour was filled with vessels of all sizes, each carrying goods from distant lands.”
• Verb: “During World War II, many French citizens risked their lives to harbour Allied soldiers who were escaping the enemy.”

Synonyms

• Noun: Port, dock, anchorage, haven, marina
• Verb: Shelter, hide, conceal, lodge, accommodate, protect