cay

noun

ˈkē How to pronounce cay (audio) ˈkā How to pronounce cay (audio)
Synonyms of cay
: a low island or reef of sand or coral

Examples of cay 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.
Made up of 40 different islands and cays, Turks and Caicos remains a popular destination for Americans on vacation. — Michael Cappetta, Travel + Leisure, 14 July 2026 Among the popular activities in the cays are swimming and snorkeling. — David Chiu, PEOPLE, 24 June 2026 Stretching over an enormous area, it is made up of thousands of reefs, islands, and cays. — Atharva Gosavi, Interesting Engineering, 8 June 2026 The Exumas are a chain of islands and cays known for their ultra-clear water and white, sandy beaches. — Andrea Margolis, FOXNews.com, 29 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for cay

Word History

Etymology

Spanish cayo — more at key

First Known Use

1707, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of cay was in 1707

Rhymes for cay

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Browse Nearby Words

Caxtonian
cay
Cayabi
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Cite this Entry

“Cay.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cay. Accessed 19 Jul. 2026.

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