anchor

any of various devices dropped by a chain, cable, or rope to the bottom of a body of water for preventing or restricting the motion of a vessel or other floating object, typically having broad, hooklike arms that bury themselves in the bottom to provide a firm hold.

any similar device for holding fast or checking motion.

any device for securing a suspension or cantilever bridge at either end.

any of various devices, as a metal tie, for binding one part of a structure to another.

a person or thing that can be relied on for support, stability, or security; mainstay.

Radio and Television.��Also a person who is the main broadcaster on a program of news, sports, etc., and who usually also serves as coordinator of all participating broadcasters during the program; anchorman or anchorwoman; anchorperson.

Television.��a program that attracts many viewers who are likely to stay tuned to the network for the programs that follow.

Also called anchor store.��a well-known store, especially a department store, that attracts customers to the shopping center in which it is located.

Slang.��automotive brakes.

Military.��a key position in defense lines.

Sports.��Also

1. the person on a team, especially a relay team, who competes last.

2. the person farthest to the rear on a tug-of-war team.

to hold fast by an anchor.

to fix or fasten; affix firmly.

to act or serve as an anchor for.

to drop anchor; lie or ride at anchor.

to keep hold or be firmly fixed.

Sports, Radio and Television.��to act or serve as an anchor.