aweigh
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
- 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
- (of an anchor) just clear of the bottom
- (used of an anchor) hanging clear of the bottom
- anchors aweigh