coastline

noun

coast·​line ˈkōs(t)-ˌlīn How to pronounce coastline (audio)
Synonyms of coastlinenext
1
: a line that forms the boundary between the land and the ocean or a lake
2
: the outline of a coast

Examples of coastline in a Sentence

The plane flew along the eastern coastline.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Few places exemplify the raw, untamed beauty of Ireland’s west coast as this natural wonder, a dramatic stretch of coastline that's equal parts historic site, geological marvel, conservation area, and unbeatable photo backdrop. Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 14 Mar. 2026 Beyond Bahía del Águila, Cape Froward will likely remain a playground only for intrepid backpackers—those capable of wild camping, carrying heavy loads, and navigating the tide charts needed to cross narrow coastlines and three broad rivers. Mark Johanson, Outside, 14 Mar. 2026 By Michael Harrelson For The Union-Tribune From its 70 miles of coastline to the 43 square miles of open desert in Borrego Springs, San Diego County’s topography is widely varied, marked largely by a hilly geography. The San Diego Union Tribune, San Diego Union-Tribune, 14 Mar. 2026 Virginia Beach, Virginia More than 30 miles of coastline, scenic walking trails, and a mild climate make Virginia Beach an attractive city for retirees. Patricia Doherty, Travel + Leisure, 13 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for coastline

Word History

First Known Use

1856, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of coastline was in 1856

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Cite this Entry

“Coastline.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/coastline. Accessed 19 Mar. 2026.

Kids Definition

coastline

noun
coast·​line ˈkōst-ˌlīn How to pronounce coastline (audio)
: the outline or shape of a coast
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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