anchor
UK: ˈæŋkə | US: ˈæŋkər
n. a heavy device dropped by a chain or rope to moor a vessel to the sea bottom
n. a source of stability or security
vt. to secure or fix firmly in place
The word "anchor" traces back to Greek ankyra, referring to the bent hook of early maritime anchors. Latin adopted it as ancora, which evolved into Old English ancor. The spelling stabilized in Middle English, retaining the core idea of a hooked or angled tool for stability. The metaphorical sense of "emotional anchor" emerged in the 19th century, extending the physical object’s role to abstract stability.
The ship dropped anchor in the bay at sunset.
She became the emotional anchor for her family during the crisis.
The reporter anchored the news broadcast with confidence.
Ancient anchors were often made of stone and wood.
His values anchored him through life’s challenges.