berths
|berths|
🇺🇸
/bɝθ/
🇬🇧
/bɜːθ/
(berth)
place to stay or moor
Etymology
'berth' originates from Middle English, specifically the word 'berthe' (Middle English). The exact origin is uncertain but it is often connected to Germanic sources meaning 'board' or 'platform'.
'berth' changed from Middle English 'berthe' (Mid 15th century) and developed into the modern English word 'berth' with senses of 'sleeping place' and 'ship's place' by Early Modern English.
Initially it referred to a 'board/platform' or simple place; over time it evolved into meanings such as 'a sleeping place (bunk)' and 'a ship's allotted place at a wharf' and later also 'a secured place in a competition'.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a ship's allotted place at a wharf or anchorage where it can be moored.
The port has ten berths available for cargo ships.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Noun 2
a bed or sleeping accommodation on a ship, train, or other vehicle (bunk).
The train's lower berths were booked quickly.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Noun 3
a place or position within a team, competition, or system (a slot or place secured).
She won one of the berths on the national team.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Verb 1
to bring or secure a ship into a berth; to moor or dock (assign a ship to a place at a wharf).
The harbor master berths the incoming vessels quickly.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Verb 2
to assign someone a sleeping place or bunk.
The crew manager berths new sailors in the forward cabins.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2026/01/11 07:14