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.
The barrier island is about four miles long and, for the most part, one house wide. Lydia Mansel, Travel + Leisure, 29 June 2025 Praia da Ilha de Tavira On the eastern side of the Algarve, near the town of Tavira, lies Ilha de Tavira, a barrier island accessible by ferry or water taxi. Kathleen Peddicord, Forbes.com, 27 June 2025 Almost 70 percent of Sanibel, a barrier island, is protected as conservation land. Christina Kelso, New York Times, 24 June 2025 This 8-mile-long barrier island entices with quartz-sand beaches and sparkling Gulf water. Kara Franker, Southern Living, 19 June 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 4 Jul. 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

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