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.
Use safe methods like ant moats, fishing line, diatomaceous earth, and repellent scents to block access. Mary Marlowe Leverette, Southern Living, 18 May 2025 Success requires a customer-back approach, deep vertical focus, building robust moats like data flywheels tied to business metrics, securing durable revenue beyond hype, and earning customer trust. Josipa Majic Predin, Forbes.com, 16 May 2025 An unloved ‘moat’ around the Estadio Jose Zorilla pitch was removed while amenities for players, club staff and supporters improved considerably. Dermot Corrigan, New York Times, 24 Apr. 2025 Those with a wide moat from their competition are even better. Steve Booren, The Denver Post, 16 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 31 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

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!