What does 'aground' mean?

Being 'aground' refers to a vessel that is touching or stuck on the bottom of a body of water. This can happen when a boat runs into shallow water, reefs, or sandbars, preventing it from floating freely as designed. When a vessel is aground, it can often cause damage to the boat itself and potentially harm the underwater environment.

This term is distinctly different from the other concepts presented in the question. For instance, floating freely in the water implies that the boat is at a safe depth and not impeded by the seafloor. Anchored securely to the sea floor indicates that the boat is intentionally held in place, typically with an anchor, while maneuvering in shallow waters suggests navigating through water that is relatively close to the bottom but not necessarily stuck on it. Understanding this terminology is essential for safe boating practices and avoiding navigational hazards.