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anker

noun
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an·​ker | \ ˈäŋkər, ˈa- \
plural -s

Definition of anker

1 : a unit of capacity:
a : an old Dutch and German liquid measure used in various countries of Europe especially for spirits and equal to about 9 to 10.5 U.S. gallons (30 to 40 liters)
b : a U.S. unit equal to 10 gallons (37.85 liters)
c : a unit of South Africa equal to 7¹/₂ imperial gallons (34.10 liters)
2 : a cask or keg having a capacity of one anker

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First Known Use of anker

1673, in the meaning defined at sense 1

History and Etymology for anker

Dutch, probably from Medieval Latin ancheria, anceria

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Cite this Entry

“Anker.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/anker. Accessed 9 Mar. 2021.

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