wharf
Wharf (noun) means a structure built on a shore or riverbank where ships can dock to load and unload. Example: “Fishermen unloaded their catch on the wharf at dawn.”
How to use wharf
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA dock or landing platform for ships.
Word forms
wharfed past tense, wharves plural, wharfs plural, wharfs singular
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
Fishermen unloaded their catch on the _____ at dawn.
Etymology
From Old English hwearf, originally meaning a heap or embankment, related to an old word for "turning" — likely describing the way goods were turned over at the dockside.
Synonyms
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Rhymes for wharf
See all rhymes for wharf →Frequently asked questions
What does “wharf” mean?
The word “wharf” means a structure built on a shore or riverbank where ships can dock to load and unload. In plain terms, a dock or landing platform for ships.
How do you pronounce “wharf”?
“Wharf” is pronounced WAWF (/ˈwɔɹf/ in IPA).
How do you use “wharf” in a sentence?
Here is “wharf” used in a sentence: “Fishermen unloaded their catch on the wharf at dawn.”
What part of speech is “wharf”?
“Wharf” is a noun.
Where does the word “wharf” come from?
The word “wharf” comes from Old English. From Old English hwearf, originally meaning a heap or embankment, related to an old word for "turning" — likely describing the way goods were turned over at the dockside.
Is “wharf” a common word?
“Wharf” is an uncommon word in modern English.
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