anchorage

noun

an·​chor·​age ˈaŋ-k(ə-)rij 

1

a

: a place where vessels anchor : a place suitable for anchoring

b

: the act of anchoring : the condition of being anchored

2

: a means of securing : a source of reassurance

this anchorage of Christian hope

—T. O. Wedel

3

: something that provides a secure hold

Synonyms

• port
• harbor

Examples of anchorage in a Sentence

an area of safe anchorage

A heavy metal ring provides anchorage for the cable.

The ring serves as a secure anchorage.

Recent Examples on the Web

According to the Chattogram Port Authority, 10 container vessels are were berthed at the port’s jetties as of Monday morning, while 19 more ships are waiting at the outer anchorage. —Glenn Taylor, Sourcing Journal, 30 June 2025

As this is the mid-Atlantic’s yachting capital, and an anchorage for caravels, clippers and seaplanes, the spirit of nautical bonhomie is pervasive. —Jennifer Leigh Parker, Forbes.com, 6 June 2025

Best known for its 16th century Portuguese fort, Galle is building a marina for yachts of up to 984 feet, with an anchorage for larger vessels. —Julia Zaltzman, Robb Report, 30 May 2025

Soon the first vessels pulled away from the anchorage, to assemble mid-lake in battle formation. —/ Cbs News, CBS News, 13 June 2025

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Kids Definition

anchorage

noun

an·​chor·​age ˈaŋ-k(ə-)rij 

1

: a place where boats may be anchored

2

: a firm hold to resist a strong pull

3

: a means of security

Medical Definition

anchorage

noun

an·​chor·​age ˈaŋ-k(ə-)rij 

1

: the act of securing or fastening firmly

2

: something (as a tooth) that provides a secure hold

anchorage for a dental plate

3

: a point or frame of psychological reference

Geographical Definition

Anchorage

geographical name

An·​chor·​age ˈaŋ-k(ə-)rij 

municipality in south central Alaska at the head of Cook Inlet population 291,826

Note: Anchorage is by far Alaska's most populous city.