breakwater

American  

[breyk-waw-ter, -wot-er] / ˈbreɪkˌwɔ tər, -ˌwɒt ər /

noun

1. a barrier that breaks the force of waves, as before a harbor.

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breakwater British  

/ ˈbreɪkˌwɔːtə /

noun

1. Also called: mole.  a massive wall built out into the sea to protect a shore or harbour from the force of waves

2. another name for groyne

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breakwater Scientific  

/ brāk′wô′tər /

1. An offshore barrier, such as a jetty, that protects a harbor or shore from the full impact of waves.

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Etymology

Origin of breakwater

First recorded in 1715–25; break + water

Example Sentences

Go for the sea views and breakwater strolls, as well as a sophisticated crafts market.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 27, 2026

The study is intended to help researchers understand how the manmade breakwater that was built in the 1930s in Santa Monica Bay, often visible during low tide, might hurt water circulation and, therefore, water quality.

From Los Angeles Times • Sep. 15, 2025

He added they would start monitoring the breakwater from the late May bank holiday on Monday, which is the start of lifeguards' summer season.

From BBC • May 20, 2025

Devon and Cornwall Police said the bomb, which was found in a residential yard on Tuesday, will be taken to the Torpoint Ferry slipway to be disposed of at sea beyond the breakwater.

From Seattle Times • Feb. 23, 2024

I left the breakwater and the cove and climbed up the path over the cliffs towards the rest of the people.

From "Rebecca" by Daphne du Maurier