C1noun2K

Anchor

UK /["/ˈæŋkə(r)/"]/US /["/ˈæŋkər/"]/

Definition

a heavy metal object that is attached to a rope or chain and dropped over the side of a ship or boat to keep it in one place

In simple words: A heavy object used to keep a ship in one place in water.

Examples

  • to **drop anchor**
  • We raised the anchor and set sail.
  • We **weighed anchor** *(= pulled it out of the water)*.
  • The ship lay at anchor two miles off the rocky coast.
  • the anchor of the family
  • She was questioned by an NBC anchor about her trip.
  • ABC news anchor Peter Jennings

Usage notes

Commonly used in nautical contexts and can also metaphorically refer to something that provides stability or security. Avoid using in formal writing about unrelated topics.

Grammar pattern

anchor + object

Memory hint

Think of a big ship being 'anchored' to stay in place in the water.

Collocations

  • cast
  • drop
  • lower
  • at anchor

Synonyms

  • moor
  • secure
  • fasten
  • stabilize
  • hold

Antonyms

  • drift
  • float

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'anarch' as both sound similar.
  • Incorrectly using 'anchorage' as a verb.
  • Misplacing the stress on the syllables (should be 'AN-chor')