molo
/ˈmɔ.lo/masculine
The English word 'dock' is translated into Italian as molo.
molo is a masculine noun referring to a fixed structure to which a vessel is secured.
Meaning: fixed structure to which a vessel is secured (noun)
Which one should you use?
While molo is the general term for a dock or pier, it specifically refers to the structure extending into the water, whereas porto refers to the entire harbor.
Related words
How does it change in a sentence?
The plural form of molo is moli.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈmɔ.lo/. The word has 2 syllables, and the stress is on the 1st syllable.
Did you know?
- In Venice, the Molo is not just any dock but the name of the specific historic quay that serves as the main entrance to the city from the lagoon.
- In many Italian coastal towns, the molo is not just a functional site for boats but a central social landmark where locals gather for the 'passeggiata'. It often serves as the primary public promenade.
- The word molo shares the same DNA as the English word 'mole', referring to a large structure like a breakwater or pier. Both words trace their ancestry back to the same ancient root describing a massive structure.
Examples in context
- Tom è sul molo.Tom is on the dock.This sentence shows where Tom is located in relation to the molo.Tatoeba #2020960 by Guybrush88, translation #1868172 by CK
- Legò la sua barca al molo.He tied his boat to the dock.This sentence demonstrates how to use molo when tying a boat.Tatoeba #10843218 by Guybrush88, translation #7391272 by CH
- La ragazza stava fissando il molo.The girl was gazing at the dock.This sentence shows someone gazing at the molo.Tatoeba #2900401 by Guybrush88, translation #2243195 by Tximist
- La nave attraccherà al molo tra pochi minuti.The ship will dock at the pier in a few minutes.
- La barca è ormeggiata alla banchina.The boat is berthed at the dock.
- 2 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Chiara and Francesco are walking along the waterfront.
- ChiaraGuarda quel molo molto lungo.Look at that very long dock.
- FrancescoSì, è un bellissimo molo di pietra.Yes, it is a beautiful stone dock.
- ChiaraPossiamo camminare fino in fondo al molo?Can we walk to the end of the dock?
- FrancescoCertamente, facciamolo subito.Certainly, let's do it right away.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “dock” translations and entries molo, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries molo, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
