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

Recent Examples on the Web

This old Southern home on a barrier island is a four-story frame structure decorated with antiques, Asian rugs, and Tiffany lamps. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 2 Nov. 2026

Virginia Key, a barrier island in Miami, saw its highest king tide and the third-highest water level since records were first kept going back three decades, Fisher said. — ABC News, 28 Oct. 2026

Its historic downtown, thriving restaurant scene, and proximity to the sugar-white sands of Pensacola Beach, just across the bay, offer plenty of coastal appeal without having to pay for property directly on the barrier island. — Skye Sherman, Southern Living, 28 Oct. 2026

Roger Picard, a canine search specialist with Florida Task Force 2, said two dogs and their handlers flew in a helicopter with the National Guard to patrol some of the barrier islands in case local fire or emergency services missed anything. — Anna McAllister, CBS News, 12 Oct. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1773, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for barrier island

• dryland

Kids Definition

barrier island

noun

: a long broad sandy island parallel to a shore that is built up by the action of waves, currents, and winds