at anchor

phrase

: being anchored
a ship at anchor

Word History

First Known Use

1565, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of at anchor was in 1565

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“At anchor.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/at%20anchor. Accessed 3 Apr. 2026.

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