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

Roger Picard, a canine search specialist with Florida Task Force 2, said two dogs and their handlers flew in a helicopter with the National Guard to patrol some of the barrier islands in case local fire or emergency services missed anything. — Anna McAllister, CBS News, 12 Oct. 2026

Encompassing 1,800 acres, the park protects some of the state’s most sensitive—and dazzling—marine habitats, including Shell Key, an undeveloped barrier island. — Kristin Granero, Travel + Leisure, 9 Oct. 2026

Dauphin Island, a 15-mile-long barrier island off the Alabama coast, encouraged some people to voluntarily evacuate. — R.j. Rico, Los Angeles Times, 8 Oct. 2026

On Dauphin Island, a 15-mile barrier island off the Alabama coast, officials encouraged voluntary evacuations, particularly on its popular western section, which is vulnerable to storm surge. — R.j. Rico, Chicago Tribune, 8 Oct. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1773, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for barrier island

• dryland

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