dune

noun

ˈdün How to pronounce dune (audio)
also ˈdyün
Synonyms of dunenext
: a hill or ridge of sand piled up by the wind
dunelike
ˈdün-ˌlīk How to pronounce dune (audio)
also ˈdyün-
adjective

Examples of dune in a Sentence

We wandered over the dunes.
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.
Visitors can hike, drive, and even slide down the dunes, which are estimated to be between 10,000 and 15,000 years old. Evie Carrick, Travel + Leisure, 7 Jan. 2026 Some towns use trees for dune reinforcement or to prevent erosion (always check with local authorities before leaving your tree on the beach). Brandee Gruener, Southern Living, 3 Jan. 2026 This biological soil crust immobilizes shifting dunes and establishes a nutrient-rich substrate essential for the successional development of plant life. Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 1 Jan. 2026 All around, empty orange dunes rippled under an azure sky, a still-life sea of sand baking under the burning sun. Angus MacKenzie, Robb Report, 31 Dec. 2025 See All Example Sentences for dune

Word History

Etymology

French, from Old French, from Middle Dutch; akin to Old English dūn down — more at down

First Known Use

1605, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of dune was in 1605

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Dune.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/dune. Accessed 19 Jan. 2026.

Kids Definition

dune

noun
: a hill or ridge of sand piled up by the wind

More from Merriam-Webster on dune

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