harbor

[ˈhɑːrbər]

harbor Definition

  • 1a place on the coast where ships may moor in shelter, especially one protected from rough water by piers, jetties, and other artificial structures.
  • 2to keep a thought or feeling in your mind for a long time

Using harbor: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "harbor" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    The harbor was filled with boats of all sizes.

  • Example

    The ship entered the harbor at dawn.

  • Example

    She harbored a secret desire to become an actress.

  • Example

    He harbored no ill feelings towards her.

harbor Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for harbor

Antonyms for harbor

Idioms Using harbor

  • to feel anger or resentment towards someone over a past event

    Example

    She still harbors a grudge against him for breaking her favorite vase.

  • a place or situation that provides protection or security

    Example

    The new law provides a safe harbor for whistleblowers who report illegal activity.

  • storm in a teacup (UK) / tempest in a teapot (US)

    a situation where people get very angry or worried about something that is not important

    Example

    The argument over the office temperature was just a storm in a teacup.

Phrases with harbor

  • a type of seal that lives along the coasts of the northern Atlantic and Pacific oceans

    Example

    We saw a group of harbor seals sunbathing on the rocks.

  • a person responsible for managing the operations of a harbor, including the movement of ships and the maintenance of facilities

    Example

    The harbor master directed the ship to its berth.

  • a company that sells discounted tools and equipment

    Example

    I bought a new drill at Harbor Freight.

Origins of harbor

from Old English 'herebeorg', meaning 'shelter, refuge'

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Summary: harbor in Brief

A 'harbor' [ˈhɑːrbər] is a place on the coast where ships can moor in shelter, often protected by artificial structures. It can also mean to keep a thought or feeling in your mind for a long time. Examples include 'The harbor was filled with boats of all sizes' and 'She harbored a secret desire to become an actress.' Idioms like 'harbor a grudge' denote resentment, while 'safe harbor' refers to a place of protection. 'Storm in a teacup' describes a situation where people get upset over something trivial.

How do native speakers use this expression?