Sailor Speak of the Week – Wharf

Definition

Noun

• A structure extending from the shore that vessels can go alongside.

Origin

15th century. From late Old English, hwearf, of the same meaning.

Comments

Somewhat synonymous with quay, but those are usually built of stone. The simple purpose of a wharf is to provide accommodations for ships to load/unload cargo, embark/disembark passengers, etc.

References

Kemp, P. (1994). The Oxford Companion to Ships and the Sea. Oxford University Press.

Rogers, J.G. (1985). Origins of Sea Terms. Mystic Seaport.