anchor

an-chor · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    A heavy object attached to a rope or chain and used to moor a vessel to the sea bottom.

  2. 2.

    A person or thing that provides stability or confidence in an otherwise uncertain situation.

  3. 3.

    A news presenter who coordinates a broadcast and introduces reports from correspondents.

  4. 4.

    (verb) To secure firmly; to fix in place.

Forms

plural: anchors

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    drop anchor — To lower the anchor to moor a vessel.
  • •
    anchor store — A major retail store that attracts customers to a shopping center.
  • •
    weigh anchor — To raise the anchor in preparation for sailing.

Related words

See also: broadcast, mooring, ship, stability
Synonyms: fastener, mainstay, mooring

Etymology

From Old English ancor, from Latin ancora, from Greek ankura ("anchor"). The word has been used in English since before the 12th century.