Anchor Meaning

Anchor

Definitions and Meaning in English

1. A heavy object attached to a ship or boat by a cable or chain, dropped to the seabed to hold the vessel in place.
2. A person or thing that provides stability or security in a particular situation.
3. A host or presenter of a news broadcast, show, or event.
4. To secure firmly in a place or position.

History and Origin

The word “anchor” comes from the Latin anchora, which itself derives from the Greek ankura, meaning “hook” or “curved object.” The term was initially used in nautical contexts to describe a device for mooring vessels. Over time, its meaning broadened to encompass metaphorical uses, symbolizing stability, security, or centrality.

Detailed Explanation

An anchor is primarily associated with its nautical function, where it ensures that a boat or ship stays in place by attaching to the seabed. Metaphorically, it represents a source of stability or security, such as an idea, person, or principle that grounds or supports. In broadcasting, an anchor refers to a host or presenter who guides a program or news broadcast, serving as the central figure. As a verb, it means to secure something firmly or to act as a stabilizing force.

Example Sentences

1. The ship dropped its anchor to prevent drifting during the storm.
2. She has always been the anchor of the family, holding everyone together.
3. The news anchor delivered the evening headlines with confidence.
4. The team’s captain served as an anchor during difficult moments.
5. They decided to anchor the tent firmly to the ground to withstand the wind.
6. His unwavering support acted as an anchor in her life.
7. The statue is securely anchored to the foundation to prevent it from toppling.
8. The radio show’s anchor kept the listeners engaged with lively discussions.
9. The bridge’s cables are anchored deep into the rock for stability.

Synonyms with Short Explanation

1. Mooring – A device or system for securing a boat, similar to an anchor.
2. Foundation – A base or support providing stability, much like an anchor in metaphorical contexts.
3. Mainstay – A central or key figure providing support or stability, similar to an anchor.
4. Stabilizer – Something that prevents movement or imbalance, akin to an anchor’s function.
5. Pillar – A strong support, often metaphorically used like an anchor.

Related Words with Short Explanation

1. Buoy – A floating device used in navigation, often paired with anchors in nautical contexts.
2. Cable – The rope or chain used to attach an anchor to a vessel.
3. Harbor – A safe place for anchoring ships, related to the function of an anchor.
4. Tether – A rope or chain used to tie or secure an object, akin to an anchor’s purpose.
5. Guide – A person or thing providing direction, similar to an anchor’s stabilizing role.

More Matches with Short Explanation

1. Presenter – A person who hosts a show or program, synonymous with a news anchor.
2. Support – Something that holds or secures, metaphorically similar to an anchor.
3. Keel – A structural element of a ship, providing stability like an anchor.
4. Holdfast – Something that secures firmly, much like an anchor.
5. Lead – A central figure in a team or program, similar to an anchor’s role in broadcasting.

Antonyms

1. Drift – To move aimlessly or without stability, opposite of anchoring.
2. Detach – To separate or unfasten, contrary to securing with an anchor.
3. Float – To remain buoyant without being fixed in place.
4. Unmoored – Not anchored or secured, the opposite of stability.
5. Instability – Lack of security or steadiness, the opposite of an anchor’s function.