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.
Diverse species like pompano, Spanish mackerel, redfish, flounder, mahi-mahi, trout, and more swim in the waters surrounding the barrier island. Carrie Honaker, Travel + Leisure, 6 May 2025 This barrier island is home to some beautiful, well, homes. Andrew Depietro, Forbes.com, 30 Apr. 2025 The 26-mile-long barrier island off the North Carolina coast is home to three charming seaside towns: North Topsail Beach, Surf City, and Topsail Beach. Grace Haynes, Southern Living, 12 Apr. 2025 Around one-fifth of red wolves meet their end on a bumper, many on US 64, a primary route that vacationers take to the Outer Banks, the picturesque chain of barrier islands that line North Carolina’s seaboard. Ben Goldfarb, Vox, 14 Mar. 2025 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

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Cite this Entry

“Barrier island.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/barrier%20island. Accessed 24 May. 2025.

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

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