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berth

15 synonyms for berth, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.

Noun — A space where a ship can dock, moor, or anchor safely.

Synonyms

Everyday swaps

Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.

Less common

Still standard English, but they carry more weight.

Rare, literary or technical

Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.

billet mooring tie up moorage built in bed

Synonyms by Meaning

1. noun

A space where a ship can dock, moor, or anchor safely.

“The ferry pulled slowly into its berth at the harbour.”

2. verb

To bring a ship into a berth, or to dock.

“The captain berthed the tanker just before the storm hit.”

How to use berth

The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.

give a wide berth dock at a berth a sleeping berth secure a berth

Etymology

From an earlier English word meaning nautical clearance or bearing-away room, related to "bear" — the idea of the space a ship needs to safely carry itself clear of others.

Full origin of berth →

Frequently asked questions

What does “berth” mean?
The word “berth” means a space where a ship can dock, moor, or anchor safely. In plain terms, a parking or sleeping spot on a ship or train, or, more loosely, a secured place or position.
How do you pronounce “berth”?
“Berth” is pronounced burth (/bɜɹθ/ in IPA).
How do you use “berth” in a sentence?
Here is “berth” used in a sentence: “The ferry pulled slowly into its berth at the harbour.”
What part of speech is “berth”?
Depending on how it is used, “berth” can be a noun and a verb.
Is “berth” a common word?
“Berth” is an uncommon word in modern English.
How many meanings does “berth” have?
“Berth” has 4 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a space where a ship can dock, moor, or anchor safely.

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Synonyms and antonyms from Wiktionary, CC BY-SA.