# moat

/ˈmoʊt/ (US) · /mˈəʊt/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/moat
Updated: 2026-05-08

## Definition

a deep, wide hole filled with water that goes around a castle to protect it. In business, it means a special advantage that keeps a company safe from its competitors.

For teachers: a deep, wide ditch surrounding a fortified place, typically filled with water. In a commercial context, it refers to a sustainable competitive advantage that protects a company's market share from rivals.

## Examples

- The castle is protected by a deep, water-filled moat.
- The company's strong brand name acts as a moat, making it difficult for new startups to compete.
- Investors often look for companies with a wide economic moat, such as proprietary technology or high switching costs, to ensure long-term profitability in a crowded market.

## Usage notes

- In modern business English, often used metaphorically with the adjectives 'wide' or 'narrow'.

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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.