quai
/kiː/
NOUN
1. A structure along the waterfront
A solid platform, embankment, or paved structure built along the edge of a river, canal, or harbor, used for docking vessels and loading or unloading cargo.
1.1. Harbors and vessel docking
Used to describe a waterfront structure where ships and boats can berth, moor, load, or unload passengers and cargo.
Synonyms
Examples
- The fishermen secured their boats along the quai before unloading their daily catch.
- Tourists gathered on the quai to watch the ships entering the harbor.
- The cargo vessel remained alongside the quai while workers unloaded its containers.
Related Words
- harbor
- port
- waterfront
- ship
- vessel
- cargo
- anchorage
- dockyard
1.2. Riverside and waterfront embankments
Used to refer to a paved or reinforced walkway or embankment running alongside a river, canal, or harbor, often serving as a public promenade.
Synonyms
- embankment
- levee
- riverfront
- waterfront
- quayside
- dockside
Examples
- Visitors enjoyed a leisurely walk along the quai overlooking the river.
- The historic quai was lined with restaurants and small shops.
- Residents gathered along the waterfront quai to enjoy the evening breeze.
Related Words
NOUN
2. A railway boarding platform
A designated platform or paved area at a railway station where passengers wait to board or leave trains.
2.1. Railway stations and passenger boarding
Used in railway terminology, particularly in French usage, to describe the platform beside railway tracks where passengers embark and disembark.
Synonyms
- platform
- boarding platform
- station platform
Examples
- Passengers waited on the quai for the next train to arrive.
- She hurried across the station to reach the correct quai before departure.
Related Words
- railway
- railroad
- train
- station
- platform edge
- passengers
- departure