Quay/kiː/ Definition 1 of 2Pro Tip 1/3Usage Context Used often in maritime and transport contexts where cargo and passengers transfer. The cruise passengers disembarked on the quay. Pro Tip 2/3Physical Features Describes the solid structure itself, not the water around or the activity taking place. The old stone quay still stands despite the storm. Pro Tip 3/3Not a Boat Remember, a quay is a place where boats dock, not a boat or type of watercraft. They gathered at the quay to watch the boats sail by.