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.
The integrated ecosystem approach means that even if the underlying AI is commoditized, the user experience can create a moat around the product. Yi Shi, Forbes, 13 Mar. 2025 This tribal identity becomes your strongest competitive moat. Jodie Cook, Forbes, 13 Mar. 2025 Takeaway Overall, Shopify is a great business with a moat and is likely to obtain a higher return on equity than its costs of capital for many years. Gurufocus, Forbes, 12 Mar. 2025 Some companies have risen to prominence through technological innovation and the ability to build strong economic moats—sustainable competitive advantages that protect market position and drive long-term success. Vaibhav Dani, Forbes, 11 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 18 Apr. 2025.

Kids Definition

moat

noun
: a deep wide trench around the walls of a castle or fortress that is usually filled with water

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