English Lexicon

Breakwater

/ˈbreɪkˌwɔː.tər/
nounCEFR C1 (Advanced)Top #14500 frequency
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2 senses
As noun
  1. 1

    A barrier built out into the sea to protect a coast or harbor from the force of waves.

    "The fishing boats safely weathered the storm behind the massive stone breakwater."
  2. 2

    Any barrier or obstacle designed to intercept and reduce the force of waves or wind.

    "An artificial breakwater was constructed offshore to prevent beach erosion."

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Linguistic Origin & Historical Etymology

Compound of the verb 'break' (from Old English 'brecan') and the noun 'water' (from Old English 'wæter'), appearing in the late 17th century. Originally coined to describe maritime engineering structures designed to 'break' the force of waves and protect a harbor or anchorage.

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