码头
mǎtóu
The Mandarin word for pier is 码头 (mǎtóu).
码头 is a broad term used to refer to any structure used for docking ships, including piers, wharves and docks.
Meaning: raised platform built from the shore out over water (noun)
What does it mean word for word?
The word is composed of 码 (mǎ), meaning code or wharf and 头 (tóu), meaning head or end.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In some areas of Taiwan, people may use the term 碼頭.
How do you pronounce it?
mǎtóu
Did you know?
- The character 码 (mǎ) is also the primary word for 'code' in the modern digital age, such as in 二维码 (QR code).
- In certain regional dialects, the word 码头 can be used colloquially to describe a 'boss' or a person who controls a specific territory or trade.
- The term 码头文化 (pier culture) refers to a specific subculture of laborers and sailors that historically influenced the dialects and slang of coastal cities like Shanghai.
Examples in context
- 明天我们要去码头等船。Tomorrow, we will go to the pier to wait for the boat.
- 这个港口的码头都很现代化。The piers in this port are all modernized.
- 我们去码头散步吧。Let's take a walk at the pier.
- 那个码头很大。Nàge mǎtóu hěn dà.That pier is very large.
- 我们在码头等船。Wǒmen zài mǎtóu děng chuán.We are waiting for the boat at the pier.
- 请在码头集合。Qǐng zài mǎtóu jíhé.Please gather at the pier.
Example conversation
Wei and Xinyi are meeting at the seaside to take a boat trip.
- 伟 Wei欣怡，你在码头吗？Xīnyí, nǐ zài mǎtóu ma?Xinyi, are you at the pier?
- 欣怡 Xinyi是的，我在码头这边。Shì de, wǒ zài mǎtóu zhèbiān.Yes, I am over here at the pier.
- 伟 Wei我马上就到码头了。Wǒ mǎshàng jiù dào mǎtóu le.I will arrive at the pier immediately.
- 欣怡 Xinyi好的，我在这里等你。Hǎo de, wǒ zài zhèlǐ děng nǐ.Okay, I will wait for you here.
