What does "docks" mean?

1. (port area) an area in a port with buildings and equipment for loading and unloading ships. 2. (joining a station) when a ship or spacecraft joins onto a station or pier. 3. (reducing pay) to take away part of someone's wages or points as a punishment.

How do you use "docks"?

Often used in the plural when referring to the entire industrial area. Usually takes a direct object representing the amount or the source of the deduction.

docks

n. · v.

US //ˈdɑks// UK //dˈɒks// docks

1 port area (n.)
B1 Intermediate

an area in a port with buildings and equipment for loading and unloading ships.

a complex of piers, wharves, and warehouses in a port where commercial vessels are serviced.

Example

The workers spent all night moving heavy crates at the docks.

Example

The city's historic docks have been transformed from a gritty industrial hub into a vibrant district of luxury apartments and galleries.

Usage

Often used in the plural when referring to the entire industrial area.
2 joining a station (v.)
B2 Upper Intermediate

when a ship or spacecraft joins onto a station or pier.

the action of a vessel or spacecraft coming alongside a quay or connecting with another craft.

Example

The ferry docks at the pier every hour to let passengers off.

Example

The automated cargo ship docks with the international space station using a series of precise thruster adjustments.
- undock
- depart
3 reducing pay (v.)
C1 Advanced Formal

to take away part of someone's wages or points as a punishment.

to deduct a portion of money or points, typically as a penalty or for a specific expense.

Example

The company docks his pay if he arrives more than ten minutes late.

Example

The manager threatened to dock the employees' bonuses if the quarterly safety targets were not met by the end of the month.

Usage

Usually takes a direct object representing the amount or the source of the deduction.
- increase
- add

Last updated June 20, 2026