moat

noun

1
: a deep and wide trench around the rampart of a fortified place (such as a castle) that is usually filled with water
The moat can be crossed by a drawbridge.
2
: a channel resembling a moat (as about a seamount or for confinement of animals in a zoo)
A Bengal tiger stared at me from across the moat.
moated adjective
moatlike adjective

Illustration of moat

Illustration of moat
  • moat 1

Examples of moat in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
This creates a moat that grass roots will struggle to get across. Leanne Potts, Better Homes & Gardens, 14 May 2025 It can also be hung from a tree or fence and features an ant moat to keep insects out. Bestreviews, Mercury News, 30 Apr. 2025 Another federal judge found last year that Google engaged in anticompetitive conduct by building a moat around its monopoly over search, saying that customers got a lower-quality experience on the internet. Winston Cho, HollywoodReporter, 17 Apr. 2025 Once an important feudal stronghold deep in the Japanese Alps, Matsumoto is known today for its towering castle; arguably the most stunning fortification in the entire country with its black-onyx trim and turquoise moat filled with curious koi. Brandon Presser, Vogue, 6 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for moat

Word History

Etymology

Middle English mote, from Anglo-French mote, motte mound, moat

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of moat was in the 15th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Moat.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/moat. Accessed 18 May. 2025.

Kids Definition

moat

noun
: a deep wide trench around the walls of a castle or fortress that is usually filled with water

More from Merriam-Webster on moat

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