anchorage
UK: ˈæŋkərɪdʒ | US: ˈæŋkərɪdʒ
n. a place where vessels anchor or moor
n. a fee charged for anchoring
n. (figurative) a source of stability or security
Derived from Middle English ankerage, from Old French ancrage, combining ancre (anchor, from Latin ancora, borrowed from Greek ankyra) + -age (a suffix denoting a place or condition, from Latin -aticum). The word evolved to signify both the physical location for anchoring ships and metaphorically as a "steadfast support." The Greek root ankyra originally meant "hook," reflecting the tool's function in securing vessels.
The bay provides safe anchorage for fishing boats during storms.
The harbor master collects anchorage fees from all incoming ships.
Her faith served as an emotional anchorage during difficult times.
The coastal town grew prosperous due to its natural anchorage.
The captain scouted the coastline for suitable anchorage.