bay
- 01 B1 Intermediate
n.a part of the coast where the land curves inward to hold a body of water.
n.a body of water partially enclosed by land but with a wide mouth, typically smaller than a gulf.
Simple“The small fishing boats were safe from the storm inside the quiet bay.”
In context“The rugged coastline is dotted with secluded bays that offer natural harbours for local sailors during the monsoon season.”
- 02 B2 Upper Intermediate
n.a specific area or space used for a particular purpose, like parking or storage.
n.a distinct compartment or recessed area within a larger structure, often defined by pillars or walls.
Simple“The mechanic drove the car into the repair bay to check the engine.”
In context“The warehouse was divided into several loading bays to facilitate the simultaneous arrival of multiple freight trucks.”
Synonyms - 03 B2 Upper Intermediate
n.a tree with smooth, dark green leaves that are used in cooking to add flavour.
n.the Laurus nobilis tree, or its dried leaves used as a culinary herb.
Simple“Add a bay leaf to the soup while it simmers for a better taste.”
In context“The recipe calls for two dried bay leaves, which should be removed before serving the stew to the guests.”
Synonyms - 04 C2 Proficiency
n.the long, deep howling sound that a large dog makes, especially when hunting.
n.the deep, prolonged barking or howling of a hound, typically during a hunt.
Simple“We could hear the distant bay of the hounds across the fields.”
In context“The eerie bay of the wolves echoed through the valley, signaling their proximity to the isolated campsite.”
Synonymshowlbellow - 05 C1 Advanced
v.to bark or howl with a long, deep sound.
v.to utter a deep, prolonged bark; often used figuratively to describe a crowd shouting for someone's defeat.
Simple“The dogs began to bay at the moon in the middle of the night.”
In context“The angry protesters began to bay for the minister's resignation as he exited the parliament building.”
- 06 C1 Advanced
adj.a reddish-brown colour, usually used to describe a horse with a black mane and tail.
adj.denoting a horse with a reddish-brown coat and black points (mane, tail, and lower legs).
Simple“She rode a beautiful bay horse in the parade.”
In context“The stable specialized in breeding bay thoroughbreds, prized for their striking reddish coats and contrasting black manes.”
- 07 B2 Upper Intermediate
n.to keep something away or prevent it from causing problems.
n.used in the idiom 'at bay' to describe the state of being forced to face an attacker or keeping a problem at a distance.
Simple“Regular exercise can help keep many health problems at bay.”
In context“The soldiers managed to hold the enemy forces at bay until reinforcements arrived at the break of dawn.”
UsageAlmost always used in the fixed phrase 'keep at bay' or 'hold at bay'.
“In Maine, DeepGreen Western Passage has proposed a submersible AI data center in the Bay of Fundy, powered by tidal turbines designed to harness the area’s strong tidal currents.”
“St Aubin's Bay enjoys a summer without the green sea lettuce that has previously caused problems.”
From Somali [Term?].
From bay.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.