# anchored

/ˈæŋkɝd/ (US) · /ˈænkəd/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/anchored
Updated: 2026-08-08

## Senses

### 2. fixed firmly to a surface

verb · CEFR B2

to be attached very strongly to a wall, the ground, or another solid object.

For teachers: to be fixed or fastened securely to a base or foundation to prevent movement.

- The heavy bookshelf was anchored to the wall so it would not fall over.
- The steel cables were anchored deep into the bedrock to ensure the bridge could withstand high winds during the winter months.

### 3. metaphorically grounded

verb · CEFR B2

to be based on a specific idea, feeling, or fact that gives you stability.

For teachers: to be firmly established or grounded in a particular set of values, facts, or circumstances.

- Her confidence was anchored in years of hard work and experience.
- The new policy is anchored in the belief that every employee deserves a fair share of the company's profits.

### 4. heraldry/shape

adjective · CEFR C2 · Technical

having ends that curve back like the hooks on a ship's anchor.

For teachers: describing a shape, particularly in heraldry, where the extremities are turned back like the flukes of an anchor.

- The family crest featured an anchored cross in bright gold.
- The researcher noted the anchored design of the cross on the medieval shield, distinguishing it from the more common moline style.

## Examples

- The boat is anchored in the bay.
- She felt anchored by her close friends during the difficult move.
- His political views remained anchored in tradition, resisting the rapid social changes of the decade.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.