dune

noun

ˈdün How to pronounce dune (audio)
also ˈdyün
Synonyms of dunenext
: a hill or ridge of sand piled up by the wind
dunelike
ˈdün-ˌlīk How to pronounce dune (audio)
also ˈdyün-
adjective

Examples of dune in a Sentence

We wandered over the dunes.
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 architecture emphasizes natural ventilation and light, reducing energy demands, while materials are chosen to blend into the surrounding dunes. Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 2 June 2026 Miles farther along, past those camping in the dunes and enjoying some of the last good overnight weather before the UAE’s sweltering summertime heat arrives, the astronomers gathered dozens of people to see the stars. Jon Gambrell, Los Angeles Times, 31 May 2026 Curved quilting lines across the upper take their cues from Brazil’s landscapes and its dunes in particular. Lily Templeton, Footwear News, 29 May 2026 Behold iconic dunes and a charming downtown on a visit to Nags Head, which is in quintessential Outer Banks territory. Elizabeth Rhodes, Travel + Leisure, 28 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for dune

Word History

Etymology

French, from Old French, from Middle Dutch; akin to Old English dūn down — more at down

First Known Use

1605, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of dune was in 1605

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Dune.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/dune. Accessed 4 Jun. 2026.

Kids Definition

dune

noun
: a hill or ridge of sand piled up by the wind

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