low-lying

adjective

low-ly·​ing ˈlō-ˈlī-iŋ 

1

: rising relatively little above the base of measurement

low-lying hills

2

: lying below the normal level, surface, or the base of measurement or mean elevation

low-lying clouds

Synonyms of low-lying

• short
• little
• small
• low
• tiny

Examples of low-lying in a Sentence

the low-lying hills blocked our view of the sea only a little bit

Recent Examples on the Web

During periods of intense rainfall, the risk of flooding increases, particularly in low-lying and flood-prone areas. —Nc Weather Bot, Charlotte Observer, 10 Jan. 2026

The watershed also is situated on relatively flat, low-lying and porous terrain, enabling higher tides to penetrate deeper into the freshwater marshes through the vast network of canals that holds the watershed together. —Amy Green, Miami Herald, 9 Jan. 2026

Rain showers could lead to ponding on roads and localized flooding in low-lying areas. —Brandi D. Addison, Cincinnati Enquirer, 8 Jan. 2026

The story of oil begins when land is pushed up in one region, creating a low-lying basin nearby, Zerpa says. —Meghan Bartels, Scientific American, 7 Jan. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1712, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for low-lying

• applying
• belying
• complying
• decrying
• defying
• denying
• implying
• outlying
• relying
• replying
• stupefying
• supplying

Kids Definition

low-lying

adjective

low-ly·​ing

ˈlō-ˈlī-iŋ

: having little upward extension or elevation

low-lying clouds