seaport
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /sˈiːpɔːt/
US
- /ˈsiˌpɔrt/
Description
- coastal port
- sea trade center
- place where ships carry goods and people
Imagine a place on the coast where ships come and go, carrying goods and people across the sea. That is a seaport. It is more than just a nice view by the water; it is an important place for trade, travel, and connection. Think of old cities like Tyre or Carthage. They grew strong because they had busy seaports. Today, places like Shanghai, Rotterdam, and New York City are major seaports, moving huge amounts of cargo that help keep the world economy going. A seaport is not only a place where ships stop. It is often part of a larger working area with docks, warehouses, customs offices, and many jobs that depend on sea traffic.
A seaport is a port on the coast, beside a sea or ocean, where ships load and unload goods or passengers. It is often used for trade, travel, fishing, transportation, and sometimes defense. Seaports are important parts of global trade because they help move goods between countries. In history, they were often places of cultural exchange, growth, and sometimes conflict.
The word "seaport" often suggests more than a simple docking point. It can also refer to the wider area built around sea trade and shipping. This may include docks, cranes, warehouses, shipyards, customs buildings, and the businesses that support them. A seaport is not just a point on a map; it is often a working center of local and international business.
You might see the word in history: "Venice was once a powerful seaport in the Mediterranean." You might also see it in modern news: "Delays at major seaports are slowing the delivery of goods." The importance of seaports goes beyond economics; they can also matter in national security and in the identity of coastal communities.
So, when you hear the word "seaport," picture a busy coastal gateway where ships, people, and goods meet, linking one place to the wider world.
Examples
- 1
Harbor town
She grew up in a busy seaport on the south coast.
Meaning
seaport
a town or city with a harbor for ships
- 2
Freight transport
The new rail line made it easier to move goods from the seaport to factories inland.
- 3
Storm closure
During the storm, the seaport was closed and all ships had to wait offshore.
Forms and spellings
2 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- seaportnoun
Forms
- seaportspluralnoun