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Definition of tanker
tanker
/ˈtæŋ.kɚ/
tan · ker
Plural:tankers
tanker Lexical Profile
CEFR
B2
Grade
5
Tier
2
Usage
Top 10k
tanker Game Scores & Validity
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Wordle Guess
• noun
1
A large ship designed to transport bulk liquids, such as petroleum, chemicals, or water.
Example
"The massive oil tanker carefully navigated through the narrow shipping channel to reach the port."
2
A heavy road vehicle equipped with a large cylindrical tank for carrying liquids or gases.
Example
"A municipal water tanker arrived at the village to supply fresh drinking water after the main pipe burst."
3
An aircraft equipped to transfer fuel to other aircraft during flight.
Example
"The military jets rendezvoused with an aerial tanker to refuel before continuing their long-distance mission."
Synonyms
View all synonyms for tanker• Rhymes for tanker
Word Origin & Etymology
Late 19th century: formed from the noun 'tank' + the suffix '-er'. Originally used to describe specially designed ships carrying bulk oil.
Cite this Entry
Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Tanker. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Oct 15, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/tanker