breakwater

[ breyk-waw-ter, -wot-er ]

noun

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

breakwater

/ ˈbreɪkˌwɔːtə /

noun

1. Also calledmole a massive wall built out into the sea to protect a shore or harbour from the force of waves
2. another name for groyne

breakwater

/ brāk′wô′tər /

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of breakwater¹

First recorded in 1715–25; break + water

Example Sentences

At the very least, people close to the coast are advised to “move out of the water, off the beach, and away from harbors, marinas, breakwaters, bays and inlets.”

From Popular-Science

You can also see the remains of the “gooseberry”—the artificial breakwater the Allies created off the beach.

From The Daily Beast

I would be very much obliged to you to say if Mr. Halse is to pay me for my past attendance at St. Ives about the breakwater.

From Project Gutenberg

The eddies beyond the breakwater were a light and delicate mauve and looked nervously alive.

From Project Gutenberg

It is protected by a stupendous granite breakwater, costing many millions and affording a delightful promenade on a fine day.

From Project Gutenberg

Still it is surprising what weather some of these little fellows make of it as they round the Breakwater.

From Project Gutenberg

Suddenly above the breakwater appeared a black pyramid, growing bigger every moment; then another, then many.

From Project Gutenberg