moor up
B2 neutral inseparable both
In simple words
Tie up a boat so it stays in one place and doesn't float away.
Literal meaning: To move upward toward a fixed position — 'up' here suggests completion of securing.
Meanings
1 B2 neutral
To fasten a boat securely to a mooring post, buoy, or riverbank so that it cannot drift.
"We moored up alongside the towpath and cooked dinner on the boat."
Grammar: inseparable
2 B2 neutral
To bring a vessel to a stop and secure it for the night or for a period of rest.
"The skipper decided to moor up early and wait for the storm to pass."
Grammar: inseparable
Usage notes
Used specifically in nautical contexts. Common among sailors, canal boaters, and fishermen. 'Moor up' tends to imply a temporary or overnight stop rather than a permanent berth.
Commonly used with
boat barge canal boat yacht narrowboat alongside
Forms
Base
moor up
I/you/we/they
3rd person
moors up
he/she/it
Past simple
moored up
yesterday
Past participle
moored up
have + pp
-ing form
mooring up
continuous
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