mooring

noun

moor·​ing ˈmu̇r-iŋ 

1

: an act of making fast a boat or aircraft with lines or anchors

2

a

: a place where or an object to which something (such as a craft) can be moored

b

: a device (such as a line or chain) by which an object is secured in place

3

: an established practice or stabilizing influence : anchorage sense 2

—usually used in plural

Examples of mooring in a Sentence

We found a temporary mooring in the harbor.

The wind was strong enough to tear the boat from its moorings.

Recent Examples on the Web

The arrangement also creates a force-cancelling effect, where the push and pull of waves on different parts of the string balance each other, reducing strain on the mooring system and keeping the overall structure lighter and more cost-effective. —New Atlas, 17 Feb. 2026

In July 2024, the City Council said current mooring permit holders would be able to keep their rates, but transfer the permit only once more. —Erika I. Ritchie, Oc Register, 14 Feb. 2026

The moorings carry scientific instruments, which don’t last forever. —New York Times, 12 Feb. 2026

In fact, a rogue buoy that broke free from its mooring last winter collected some of the first data scientists have on what happens when waves and ice collide. —Caitlin Looby, jsonline.com, 12 Feb. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for mooring

• curing
• during
• luring
• touring
• alluring
• assuring
• contouring
• enduring
• ensuring
• insuring
• manuring
• maturing

Kids Definition

mooring

noun

moor·​ing ˈmu̇(ə)r-iŋ 

1

: a place or object to which a boat or aircraft can be fastened

2

: a device or line by which a boat or aircraft is moored