wharf

wharf

noun \ˈhwȯrf, ˈwȯrf\

: a flat structure that is built along the shore of a river, ocean, etc., so that ships can load and unload cargo or passengers

plural wharves \ˈhwȯrvz, ˈwȯrvz\ also wharfs

Full Definition of WHARF

1

:  a structure built along or at an angle from the shore of navigable waters so that ships may lie alongside to receive and discharge cargo and passengers

2

obsolete :  the bank of a river or the shore of the sea

Examples of WHARF

1. <tied the rowboat up at the wharf>

Origin of WHARF

Middle English, from Old English hwearf embankment, wharf; akin to Old English hweorfan to turn, Old High German hwerban, Greek karpos wrist

First Known Use: before 12th century

Related to WHARF

Synonyms

float, jetty, landing, levee, pier, quai, quay, dock

Related Words

berth, mooring, slip; embarcadero [West]; dockyard, marina, quayage, shipyard, wharfage

Other Transportation Terms

camber, corduroy, demurrage, milestone