low-lying

adjective

low-ly·​ing ˈlō-ˈlī-iŋ How to pronounce low-lying (audio)
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

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
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.
During periods of intense rainfall, the risk of flooding increases, particularly in low-lying and flood-prone areas. Nc Weather Bot, Charlotte Observer, 19 Oct. 2025 Correct any low-lying areas that may trap moisture from rain, snow, or ice and cause turf damage. Mary Marlowe Leverette, Southern Living, 17 Oct. 2025 The vast majority of its waters go to low-lying areas of California and Mexico. Big Think, 17 Oct. 2025 These fast-forming, high-intensity storms frequently lead to flash flooding, especially in low-lying areas or dry washes. Soo Kim, MSNBC Newsweek, 16 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for low-lying

Word History

First Known Use

1712, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of low-lying was in 1712

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Cite this Entry

“Low-lying.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/low-lying. Accessed 23 Oct. 2025.

Kids Definition

low-lying

adjective
low-ly·​ing
ˈlō-ˈlī-iŋ
: having little upward extension or elevation
low-lying clouds
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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