(figuratively) Something to which one adheres to, or the means that help one maintain a stable position and keep one's identity - moral, intellectual, political, etc.
1890, John George Nicolay and John Hay,The party of pro-slavery reaction was for the moment in the ascendant; and as by an irresistible impulse, the Supreme Court of the United States was swept from its hitherto impartial judicial moorings into the dangerous seas of polities.
1898, Florence Earle Coates, song: ""Friendship from its moorings strays,Love binds fast together;Friendship is for balmy days,Love for stormy weather.
