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
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.
And the hassle of waiting way too long at the bridge, trying to get back and forth from the mainland to the barrier island. Susannah Bryan, Sun Sentinel, 14 Mar. 2026 The retrospective exhibit places the 26,000-acre, undeveloped Georgia barrier island near Savannah among the most important artist colonies of the 20th century. Amy Paige Condon, AJC.com, 12 Mar. 2026 From the Gulf’s emerald waters to the Atlantic’s windswept barrier islands, the South is home to some of the prettiest stretches of shoreline in the country. Tara Massouleh McCay, Southern Living, 12 Mar. 2026 On December 31st, a major storm developed over North Carolina’s barrier islands where the Monitor was anchored. Andrew Paul, Popular Science, 11 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for barrier island

Word History

First Known Use

1773, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of barrier island was in 1773

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Barrier island.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/barrier%20island. Accessed 18 Mar. 2026.

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

More from Merriam-Webster on barrier island

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster