wharf
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /wɔrf/
KK: /wɔrf/
intransitive verb
Definition
To come alongside a structure built on the shore for ships to dock and load or unload.
Example
The ship will wharf at the dock to unload its cargo.
Tense Forms
Past: wharfed
Past Participle: wharfed
Conversation
Did you see the boat wharf at the marina yesterday?
Yeah, it looked huge!
I wonder how long it takes to wharf those big ships.
Probably not too long if they're experienced.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
dock
moor
berth
Antonyms
depart
leave
disembark
noun
Definition
A place by the water where ships can dock to load or unload goods and passengers.
Example
The cargo ship was docked at the wharf, ready to unload its supplies.
Conversation
Have you seen the new wharf they built downtown?
Yeah, I walked by it the other day; it looks amazing!
I think it's great how it gives people a nice place to relax by the water.
transitive verb
Definition
To bring a ship to a dock or platform where goods are loaded and unloaded.
Example
The crew will wharf the ship at the dock for repairs.
Tense Forms
Past: wharfed
Past Participle: wharfed
Conversation
Have you seen the new wharf they built downtown?
Yeah, it looks great! I heard they plan to wharf more boats there soon.
That’s awesome! It will definitely attract more visitors to the area.
Root Explanation
The word 'wharf' originates from Old English 'werf' (meaning a place to land or a bank) and is related to the Old Norse 'varf' (meaning to throw or to place). The term refers to a structure built on the shore where ships can dock and unload.
Memory Tip
Think of a 'place to land' ('werf') for ships, which helps you remember that a wharf is where boats come to rest.
Visually Confused Words
warf
whaur
tharf
swarf
dwarf