berth

Meanings

1. 1
   noun

   a place for a ship to dock; a sleeping bunk on a ship or train

   The freighter eased into its berth at the crowded quay.

Simplified etymology

Berth is related to bear in its older sense “carry.” In the early 17th century it meant the room needed to turn or maneuver a ship, then an allotted place at a wharf; it later referred first to the place where sailors stored their chests and then to their sleeping space.

Of uncertain origin, recorded from the 17th century as a nautical term 'sea room,' probably from bear (in the nautical sense 'to bear off') + -th.

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