A port is a place where ships load and unload their goods.
 
A port is usually located at the edge of an ocean, sea, river, or lake. Ports often have cargo-handling equipment such as cranes and forklifts. Often, canneries or other processing facilities will be located very close by.

Sometimes a port on a lake or river also has a way to get to the ocean, and is then known as an inland port.
 

Good seaports and river ports have these features:
  • deep water in port channels and berths (place where you park a boat or ship)
  • protection from wind, waves, and storms
  • close to transportation like trucks and train
 

Related Terms
coast - most ports are located off the coast of the ocean
lake - a lake can have a port
bay - often makes a good place for a port
harbor - you sometimes find a port inside a harbor

 
 
© Nibble University 2000-2008