ancrer

to anchor

verb ahn-KREH Rare

Also means

to root, to embed firmly

Usage Note

Ancrer is used literally for mooring a boat with an anchor (ancre, f) and figuratively for embedding beliefs, habits, or ideas firmly: ancrer une idée dans les esprits. The past participle ancré(e) is very common as an adjective meaning 'deep-rooted' or 'entrenched'. The reflexive s'ancrer means to become rooted or to settle firmly.

Examples

"Il faut ancrer le bateau avant la tempête."

Natural Translation

You must anchor the boat before the storm.

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