harbor crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're tackling a clue related to "harbor," you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of potential answers, organized by letter count, along with clear explanations to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "harbor crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
PORT: A place on the coast where ships may shelter or moor, often with facilities for loading and unloading.
DOCK: An enclosed area of water in a port for the loading, unloading, and repair of ships, sometimes specific to a single vessel.
5 Letters
HAVEN: A place of safety or refuge; commonly used as a synonym for a harbor or port providing shelter from weather or danger.
6 Letters
MARINA: A specially designed harbor with moorings for pleasure boats and yachts, typically with services for recreational vessels.
7 Letters
SHELTER: A place providing protection from bad weather or danger. This can broadly apply to a harbor's primary function.
More About "harbor crossword clue"
"Harbor" is a versatile word in crosswords, often leading to answers that relate to maritime locations, but sometimes venturing into more metaphorical meanings. While the most common interpretations point to places where ships dock or find refuge, such as a PORT, DOCK, or MARINA, the clue might also hint at a broader sense of safety or a place of retreat, leading to answers like HAVEN or SHELTER. Pay close attention to the number of letters and any surrounding clues to narrow down the possibilities.
Beyond its literal nautical meaning, "harbor" can also function as a verb, meaning to keep or hold, especially a thought or feeling secretly (e.g., "to harbor resentment"). While less common for a simple "harbor" clue, expert-level puzzles might use this interpretation. Always consider the context of the entire puzzle, including the puzzle's theme or the setter's typical style, to correctly identify the intended meaning.
Understanding these nuances is key to solving "harbor" clues, whether they point to a bustling commercial PORT or a tranquil, protective HAVEN. The explanations provided on this page are designed to give you that extra edge.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Check Letter Count First: Always match the provided letter count with the answers you're considering. This is the most crucial step for any crossword clue.
- Consider Synonyms and Wordplay: For "harbor," think of direct synonyms (port, haven) but also words that describe its function (shelter). Sometimes, the clue might imply a verb form, so be alert for that.
- Look at Intersecting Letters: The letters you've already filled in from other clues are invaluable. They will often eliminate incorrect answers and confirm the right one for "harbor."
- Think Broadly and Figuratively: While marine terms are primary, remember "harbor" can also mean to hold or conceal. If the common nautical answers don't fit, consider a more abstract interpretation.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'harbor' typically mean in a crossword clue?
In crosswords, 'harbor' commonly refers to a place where ships can find shelter, dock, or moor. It can also refer to a place of refuge or safety more generally, or even the act of holding a feeling or idea (e.g., 'harbor resentment').
Are there common synonyms for 'harbor' used in crossword puzzles?
Yes, common synonyms include PORT, DOCK, QUAY, PIER, HAVEN, MARINA, ANCHORAGE, and BAY. The specific answer depends on the letter count and other intersecting clues in the puzzle.
How can I distinguish between similar 'harbor' answers like PORT and DOCK?
While both are related to harbors, PORT is a broader term for a town or city with a harbor, or the harbor itself. DOCK specifically refers to the enclosed area of water within a port where ships are loaded/unloaded or repaired. The surrounding words in the clue or intersecting letters will usually guide you to the correct answer.