moat
1 synonym for moat, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — A deep, wide ditch, usually filled with water, dug around a castle or fort for defence.
Synonyms
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
How to use moat
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
a castle moat
economic moat
competitive moat
Etymology
From Old French "mote," meaning "mound" or "embankment" — the meaning later shifted from the raised earthwork itself to the ditch dug around it. The business sense was popularized by the investor Warren Buffett.
Full origin of moat →Frequently asked questions
What does “moat” mean?
The word “moat” means a deep, wide ditch, usually filled with water, dug around a castle or fort for defence. In plain terms, a defensive ditch around a castle, or, in business, a lasting competitive advantage.
How do you pronounce “moat”?
“Moat” is pronounced moht (/moʊt/ in IPA).
How do you use “moat” in a sentence?
Here is “moat” used in a sentence: “Visitors crossed a wooden drawbridge over the moat to enter the castle.”
What part of speech is “moat”?
Depending on how it is used, “moat” can be a noun and a verb.
Where does the word “moat” come from?
The word “moat” comes from Old French. From Old French "mote," meaning "mound" or "embankment" — the meaning later shifted from the raised earthwork itself to the ditch dug around it. The business sense was popularized by the investor Warren Buffett.
Is “moat” a common word?
“Moat” is an uncommon word in modern English.
How many meanings does “moat” have?
“Moat” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a deep, wide ditch, usually filled with water, dug around a castle or fort for defence.
