harbor
har
ˈhɑr
haar
bor
bər
bēr
/ˈhɑːbə/
harbour

Definition & Meaning of "harbor"in English

Harbor
01

a sheltered area of water along the coast where ships, boats, and other vessels can anchor safely, typically protected from rough seas by natural or artificial barriers

harbor definition and meaning
Examples
The ships docked in the harbor to avoid the storm approaching from the open sea.
02

a safe place that provides refuge or shelter from danger or difficulty

Examples
After a long journey, the quaint village served as a harbor for weary travelers seeking rest.
to harbor
01

to maintain thoughts, feelings, or emotions, often over time

Transitive: to harbor a thought or feeling
to harbor definition and meaning
Examples
He still harbors resentment toward his former business partner.
02

to provide a safe place for a person

Transitive: to harbor sb
Examples
During the storm, the family harbored several stranded travelers overnight.
2.1

to serve as a habitat or protective environment for a living organism

Transitive: to harbor an organism
Examples
The old tree harbors countless species of birds and insects.
2.2

to serve as a carrier for harmful microorganisms

Transitive: to harbor harmful microorganisms
Examples
Wild animals can harbor pathogens that pose risks to human health.
03

to hold or possess something within

Transitive: to harbor sth
Examples
The old chest harbored a collection of ancient artifacts.
04

(of a ship) to dock or take shelter in a harbor

Intransitive: to harbor somewhere
Old use
Examples
The captain ordered the crew to harbor in the nearest port for the night.
05

(of an organism) to live within another living organism as a host

Intransitive: to harbor somewhere
Examples
The parasite harbors within the intestines of its host, feeding off nutrients.
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