barrier reef

noun

: a coral reef roughly parallel to a shore and separated from it usually by a lagoon

Examples of barrier reef 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.
All three properties in Belize are well-positioned for guests who want a luxe home base for snorkeling or diving excursions to the country’s renowned barrier reef. Sarah Bruning, Travel + Leisure, 8 July 2025 The island is also famous for its coral reef, which is the only living coral barrier reef in the United States, according to the Florida Keys tourism website. Michael Cappetta, Travel + Leisure, 23 July 2025 Florida’s Coral Reef is the third-largest barrier reef system in the world and the only living coral barrier reef in the continental U.S. Bill Kearney, Sun Sentinel, 3 July 2025 Rock House is a luxury resort boasting turquoise water and a white sand beach, surrounded by one of the world’s largest barrier reefs that wraps around the archipelago. Tanya Benedicto Klich, Forbes.com, 15 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for barrier reef

Word History

First Known Use

1805, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of barrier reef was in 1805

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Cite this Entry

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

Kids Definition

barrier reef

noun
: a coral reef roughly parallel to a shore and separated from it by a lagoon

More from Merriam-Webster on barrier reef

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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