In nautical terms, it is a place where boats will stay and park stationery.

In computing, it is a place to insert usb and other stuff that would usually go into a computer or laptop.

affective computing!

"Distributed" or "grid" computing in general is a special type of parallel computing, it is advanced in the means of using distributed computing.

Cloud computing is better then normal grid computing as its cheaper to buy, use and maintain. Cloud computing can offer web hosting also which grid computing can not.

Go parallel with the dock, stop the engine, and let the current drift you to the dock.