Definition

1. Adjective:
   • Just clear of the bottom: Describes the state of a ship's anchor when it has been raised and is no longer touching or embedded in the seabed, but is hanging freely in the water, ready to be fully retrieved.
   • Hanging clear of the bottom: Specifically used to indicate that an anchor is suspended in the water, not resting on or dragging along the seafloor.

Usage

• The word aweigh is almost exclusively used in a nautical (sailing/shipping) context. It is a technical term describing the precise state of an anchor.
• It is most commonly found in the fixed phrase "anchors aweigh." This is a report or command indicating that the anchor(s) are clear of the bottom and the ship is ready to get underway.
• It is not typically used in everyday conversation outside of this specific maritime context.

Examples

Advanced Usage

• "Anchors aweigh": This is a set phrase and a traditional naval command. It signifies the moment a ship begins its journey. It is also the title of the official song of the United States Navy.

Variants and Related Words

• Weigh (verb): In nautical terminology, "to weigh anchor" means to raise the anchor from the seabed in preparation for departure. The adjective "aweigh" describes the state achieved during this action.
• Anchor (noun/verb): The heavy device lowered to the seabed to hold a vessel in place.

Synonyms

• Clear (in this specific context): The anchor is clear of the bottom.
• Raised (though less precise): "Raised" can indicate the action, while "aweigh" describes the specific result of that action.

Antonyms

• Fouled: Describes an anchor that is tangled or stuck.
• Embedded / Set: Describes an anchor that is dug into the seabed and holding the vessel.
• Dragging: Describes an anchor that is touching the bottom but not holding, causing the vessel to move unintentionally.

Adjective

1. (of an anchor) just clear of the bottom
2. (used of an anchor) hanging clear of the bottom
   • anchors aweigh