inlet

noun

in·​let ˈin-ˌlet 

-lət

1

a

: a bay or recess in the shore of a sea, lake, or river

also : creek

b

: a narrow water passage between peninsulas or through a barrier island leading to a bay or lagoon

2

: a way of entering

especially : an opening for intake

Synonyms of inlet

• bay
• estuary
• cove

Examples of inlet in a Sentence

The coast is dotted with tiny inlets.

went fishing in the quiet inlets of the coast

Recent Examples on the Web

Don’t skip Thunder Hole, a rock inlet where waves crash loud enough to feel in your chest. —Lauren Schuster, Charlotte Observer, 29 Apr. 2026

Refuel with the legendary popovers at Jordan Pond House, then time your visit to Thunder Hole — a rocky inlet that booms when waves crash through it just right. —Lauren Schuster, Miami Herald, 29 Apr. 2026

Stop by Jordan Pond House — the popovers are legendary — and let kids marvel at Thunder Hole, a rock inlet known for its loud crashing waves. —Lauren Schuster, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 28 Apr. 2026

Plugging the metal end of the hose into the inlet engages the vacuum’s motor, turning the machine on; when the hose is unplugged, the system shuts itself off. —Jolie Kerr, Better Homes & Gardens, 25 Apr. 2026

Word History

Etymology

from its letting water in

First Known Use

circa 1576, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Rhymes for inlet

• abet
• asset
• baguette
• banquette
• barbette
• beget
• beset
• brevet
• briquette
• brunet
• brunette
• burette

Kids Definition

inlet

noun

in·​let ˈin-ˌlet 

-lət

1

: a small or narrow bay

2

: an opening for intake especially of fluids

Medical Definition

inlet

noun

in·​let ˈin-ˌlet, -lət 

: the upper opening of a bodily cavity

especially : that of the cavity of the true pelvis bounded by the pelvic brim