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

He rode his his first wave in 1959, at the age of 16, from the breakwater at Half Moon Bay.

From Los Angeles Times

“For example, the breakwater protects the beach from large waves, keeping the beach wider than it would naturally be.”

From Los Angeles Times

The work of running a port is a constant maintenance of channels, breakwaters, bridges, and the machinery of seagoing commerce.

From Los Angeles Times

Mr Ramsay said there was evidence that a "lifeguard on breakwater had worked in the past".

From BBC