seawall

noun

sea·​wall ˈsē-ˌwȯl How to pronounce seawall (audio)
: a wall or embankment to protect the shore from erosion or to act as a breakwater

Examples of seawall in a Sentence

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.
Once a closed low develops, it will get officially classified along with a forecast cone from the NHC... Stock Image: Tropical Alberto Storm surge pushing waves against seawall in Galveston, Texas. Theo Burman, MSNBC Newsweek, 15 Sep. 2025 Important note: The retaining wall for the walkway is not the same thing as the seawall protecting the plant, which is in good condition, Edison’s Ron Pontes said. Teri Sforza, Oc Register, 5 Sep. 2025 The repairs are needed to address storm damage to the seawall and surrounding area at the corner of South and Whitehead streets. Miami Herald Archives, Miami Herald, 2 Sep. 2025 Human modifications to coastal landscapes, such as seawalls and levees, can worsen flood risks, accelerate erosion and hinder the ability of coastal ecosystems to naturally adapt, according to the Fifth National Climate Assessment. Julia Jacobo, ABC News, 20 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for seawall

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of seawall was in the 15th century

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Cite this Entry

“Seawall.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/seawall. Accessed 6 Oct. 2025.

Kids Definition

seawall

noun
sea·​wall ˈsē-ˌwȯl How to pronounce seawall (audio)
: a wall or bank to prevent sea waves from wearing away the shore

More from Merriam-Webster on seawall

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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