marsh

noun

ˈmärsh 

often attributive

: a tract of soft wet land usually characterized by monocotyledons (such as grasses or cattails)

Synonyms of marsh

• wetland
• swamp

Examples of marsh in a Sentence

a wide expanse of marsh

the marshes along the coast support a remarkable profusion of plants and animals

Recent Examples on the Web

But during this year’s drought, much of that water is evaporating before reaching the marshes, Davis said. —Ashley Miznazi, Miami Herald, 16 Mar. 2026

About 17 miles east is Hunting Island State Park, with its pristine beaches, marshes, maritime forest, and saltwater lagoon. —Lydia Mansel, Travel + Leisure, 15 Mar. 2026

Take an ecotour with Pawleys Island Guide Services to explore the marshes, deltas, tidal creeks, and estuaries that wind their way around the island. —Tara Massouleh McCay, Southern Living, 12 Mar. 2026

The sound grew louder, and the plane came into sight just over the trees bordering the marsh, flying low and less than 500 yards away. —Elwyn "bud" Myers, Outdoor Life, 11 Mar. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English mersh, from Old English merisc, mersc; akin to Middle Dutch mersch marsh, Old English mere sea, pool — more at marine

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing marsh

• marsh elder
• marsh gas
• marsh hawk
• marsh hen
• marsh mallow
• marsh marigold
• marsh pink
• salt marsh

Rhymes for marsh

• harsh

Kids Definition

marsh

noun

ˈmärsh 

: an area of soft wet land usually overgrown by grasses and sedges

marshy

ˈmär-shē

adjective

Biographical Definition

Marsh

biographical name

ˈmärsh 

Dame (Edith) Ngaio ˈnī-(ˌ)ō  1899–1982 New Zealand writer