What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
harbor
Example
The ship sailed into the harbor and dropped anchor. [harbor: noun]
Example
She harbored a secret fear that she would never achieve her dreams. [harbored: past tense verb]
dock
Example
The cargo ship was loaded with containers at the dock. [dock: noun]
Example
The captain skillfully docked the ship in the crowded port. [docked: past tense verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Dock is more commonly used than harbor in everyday language, especially in British English. However, both words are still widely used in nautical contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between harbor and dock?
Both harbor and dock can be used in formal and informal contexts, but harbor may be slightly more formal due to its less frequent usage in everyday language.
