noun
A structure where ships can berth to load and unload cargo or passengers. Common in port and logistics contexts.
大型船が埠頭に接岸した。
A large ship docked at the pier.
埠頭にはたくさんのコンテナが積まれている。
Many containers are stacked on the wharf.
波止場 is a more general term for a wharf or landing place, often smaller in scale, while 埠頭 specifically refers to a pier or quay built for loading and unloading ships.
桟橋 is a pier or jetty, often a wooden structure extending into the water, used for boarding or fishing; 埠頭 is a larger, more industrial structure for cargo handling.
The kanji 埠 means 'wharf' or 'pier', and 頭 means 'head' or 'end', together forming the concept of a landing place. The reading ふとう is on'yomi.