waterline

noun

wa·​ter·​line ˈwȯ-tər-ˌlīn How to pronounce waterline (audio)
ˈwä-
: a line that marks the level of the surface of water on something: such as
a(1)
: the point on the hull of a ship or boat to which the water rises
(2)
: a line marked on the outside of a ship that corresponds with the water's surface when the ship is afloat on an even keel under specified conditions of loading

Examples of waterline in a Sentence

We repaired the hull below the waterline.
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.
Leaves, pollen, insects, and debris accumulate on the water surface, while dirt settles along the pool floor and waterline. Atharva Gosavi, Interesting Engineering, 27 Mar. 2026 The water from the 24-inch bypass was no longer reaching the lake Tuesday because the bypass was connected at two points to the existing waterline, and the fifth break happened beyond those connections, officials said. Claire Osborn, Austin American Statesman, 17 Mar. 2026 Two waterline workers were struck by a vehicle early Thursday in downtown Lawrenceville, leaving one in critical condition and causing several road closures during the morning commute, police said. Cbs News Atlanta Digital Team, CBS News, 26 Feb. 2026 As someone with oily skin, pencil liners have always been temperamental—waterline applications fading within hours, lid formulas transferring onto my slightly hooded eyes. Conçetta Ciarlo, Vogue, 18 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for waterline

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1625, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of waterline was circa 1625

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Waterline.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/waterline. Accessed 2 Apr. 2026.

Kids Definition

waterline

noun
wa·​ter·​line ˈwȯt-ər-ˌlīn How to pronounce waterline (audio)
ˈwät-
: a line marked on the outside of a ship that matches the surface of the water when the ship floats evenly
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