What does the term "mooring" mean?

Mooring refers to the act of securing a boat to a fixed object or anchor, which is essential for maintaining the vessel's position in the water. This process can involve tying the boat to a dock, buoy, or anchoring it in place using specific hardware designed to hold the boat steady and prevent it from drifting. Proper mooring is crucial for safety, stability, and protecting the vessel from adverse conditions and other boats.

The other options touch on activities related to boat maintenance and operation, but they do not accurately define mooring. Cleaning a boat, starting an engine, and measuring boat dimensions all represent different aspects of boat care and usage rather than the specific action of securing a vessel.