German word

Anker

Pronunciation

IPA/ˈaŋkɐ/

Meaning

  • masculine nounanchor

Example

Wir werfen den Anker in die Bucht.

We are dropping anchor in the bay.

Illustration for Anker (anchor)

More examples

Für viele Bewohner dient das Café im Viertel als Anker.

For many residents, the café in the neighborhood serves as an anchor.

Core concept

A heavy metal device bites into the seabed and holds a vessel in place, while an anchor can also represent a stable point of support.

Common phrases

  • als Anker dienen

    serve as an anchor

  • den Anker sichern

    secure the anchor

Similar words

Halt: A dependable source of comfort and stability.
Stütze: Someone or something that gives needed support or assistance.
Bezugspunkt: A point or idea used as a basis for assessment or judgment.
Orientierungspunkt: A landmark that helps establish direction or guide a plan.

Definition in German

Anker ist ein schweres Gerät, das durch Gewicht oder Haken ein Schiff am Meeresboden befestigt und so dessen Lage sichert.

Word origin

German Anker came through Latin ancora from Ancient Greek ankura, retaining the nautical sense of a device that holds a ship.

Usage tips

  • Anker is masculine, with the definite article der, and its plural is also Anker.

Related words

  • verankernanchorverb
  • verankertanchoredadjective

Word lists with this word