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.
Other impacts to land include the chance of 10- to 15-foot waves along the Outer Banks, barrier islands off North Carolina and southern Virginia, flash flooding and mudslides in Puerto Rico and wind gusts of 60 to 80 mph in Bermuda, AccuWeather said. Jeanine Santucci, USA Today, 15 Aug. 2025 This barrier island is located right off the southern tip of Texas and has been a beloved destination for generations. Kaitlyn Yarborough, Southern Living, 7 Aug. 2025 Some sit at the edge of resort towns while others on barrier islands, shaped by shifting tides and the rhythm of local life. AFAR Media, 14 July 2025 Areas to Visit Connected to the mainland by bridges on both ends, Cancun's Hotel Zone clings to over 14 miles of pristine white beaches along a barrier island that first drew development to this region of Mexico decades ago. Carley Rojas Avila, Travel + Leisure, 12 July 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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Barrier island.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/barrier%20island. Accessed 21 Aug. 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

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!