Full Definition of BERTH1 a : sufficient distance for maneuvering a ship b : an amount of distance maintained for safety <give the fire a wide berth> 2 a : the place where a ship lies when at anchor or at a wharf b : a space for an automotive vehicle at rest <a truck-loading berth> 3 : a place to sit or sleep especially on a ship or vehicle : accommodation 4 a : a billet on a ship b : job, positio