harbour
UK: ˈhɑːbə | US: ˈhɑːrbər
n. a place on the coast where ships may moor in shelter
vt. to give shelter or refuge to someone/something (often figuratively, e.g., feelings or criminals)
The word traces back to Old English herebeorg, reflecting its martial roots (sheltering armies). Over time, here- (army) faded, and harb- narrowed to maritime contexts. The -our suffix (common in British English) stabilised the noun form, while the verb sense ("to shelter") emerged by the 12th century, extending to abstract refuge (e.g., "harbour suspicions").
The fishing boats returned to the harbour before the storm.
She harboured a secret admiration for her rival.
The port is a natural harbour protected by cliffs.
It’s illegal to harbour fugitives from justice.
His heart harboured no ill will after the argument.