bollard

American  

[bol-erd] / ˈbɒl ərd /

noun

1. Nautical.

   1. a thick, low post, usually of iron or steel, mounted on a wharf or the like, to which mooring lines from vessels are attached.

   2. a small post to which lines are attached.

   3. bitt.

2. British. one of a series of short posts for excluding or diverting motor vehicles from a road, lawn, or the like.

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bollard British  

/ ˈbɒlɑːd, ˈbɒləd /

noun

1. a strong wooden or metal post mounted on a wharf, quay, etc, used for securing mooring lines

2. a small post or marker placed on a kerb or traffic island to make it conspicuous to motorists

3. mountaineering an outcrop of rock or pillar of ice that may be used to belay a rope

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Etymology

Origin of bollard

First recorded in 1835–45; bole ¹ + -ard

Explanation

A bollard is a short post, especially one used for mooring a boat. If you visit a working harbor, you'll see many bollards. Bollards are known for being especially sturdy, strong enough that a boat securely moored there can't be blown or tossed around. Some ships also have bollards on board, for wrapping and storing unused rope. Posts used to control automobile traffic are sometimes also called bollards. The root is thought to be the Old Norse bolr, "tree trunk."

Example Sentences

The problem in New Orleans was that the bollard system was being replaced.

From Slate • Jan. 7, 2025

Kara Duffus, a New Jersey–born artist who lives in the neighborhood, stood in the parking lot, a drawing board balanced on a bollard, sketching the Hut in the waning light.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 5, 2025

As Cauchi moved onto the escalator, Mr Guerot confronted him at the top, waving a bollard in defence.

From BBC • Apr. 15, 2024

That’s about how long it takes to remove the car’s steering wheel club, undo four tire locks and lower a yellow bollard before backing out of his driveway.

From New York Times • Feb. 24, 2024

One let go, and his rope lashed itself loose from the bollard; but the other man, feeling the rope lift, instinctively clung on instead of letting go.

From "The Subtle Knife" by Philip Pullman