barrier island
noun
: a long broad sandy island lying parallel to a shore that is built up by the action of waves, currents, and winds and that protects the shore from the effects of the ocean
Examples of barrier island in a Sentence
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Eight unoccupied houses were claimed by roaring Atlantic surf this week on the Outer Banks — a 200-mile ribbon of barrier islands on the North Carolina coast — as Hurricane Humberto and Hurricane Imelda passed offshore.
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Janet Loehrke, USA Today, 4 Oct. 2025
From its place on the Crystal Coast, an 85-mile-long barrier island also known as the Southern Outer Banks, its beauty is apparent.
—Mary Catherine McAnnally Scott, Southern Living, 24 Sep. 2025
Located about 25 miles south of Fort Myers, this family-friendly, 33-square-mile barrier island is famous for its collection of shells—especially scallop, clam, and tulip varieties—and sand dollars, forming a veritable treasure trove for collectors.
—Skye Sherman, Travel + Leisure, 15 Sep. 2025
The park’s crown jewel is Bear Island, a pristine, undeveloped barrier island accessible only by ferry or private boat.
—Evan Moore, Charlotte Observer, 12 Sep. 2025
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Janet Loehrke, USA Today, 4 Oct. 2025
From its place on the Crystal Coast, an 85-mile-long barrier island also known as the Southern Outer Banks, its beauty is apparent.
—Mary Catherine McAnnally Scott, Southern Living, 24 Sep. 2025
Located about 25 miles south of Fort Myers, this family-friendly, 33-square-mile barrier island is famous for its collection of shells—especially scallop, clam, and tulip varieties—and sand dollars, forming a veritable treasure trove for collectors.
—Skye Sherman, Travel + Leisure, 15 Sep. 2025
The park’s crown jewel is Bear Island, a pristine, undeveloped barrier island accessible only by ferry or private boat.
—Evan Moore, Charlotte Observer, 12 Sep. 2025
See All Example Sentences for barrier island
Cite this Entry
“Barrier island.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/barrier%20island. Accessed 16 Oct. 2025.
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