waterline

noun

wa·​ter·​line ˈwȯ-tər-ˌlīn 

ˈwä-

: a line that marks the level of the surface of water on something: such as

a(1)

: the point on the hull of a ship or boat to which the water rises

(2)

: a line marked on the outside of a ship that corresponds with the water's surface when the ship is afloat on an even keel under specified conditions of loading

b

: shoreline sense 1

Examples of waterline in a Sentence

We repaired the hull below the waterline.

Recent Examples on the Web

The brand’s Kali Kali kohl pencils come in a range of mainly neutral shades, but its royal-blue Neela Neela iteration makes for a vibrant waterline accent or a smudgy statement. —Noor Lobad, Footwear News, 24 May 2025

But when pushed past its limits, the Nolichucky leveled a factory and carved out mud cliffs over 20 feet above the normal waterline. —Barbara Kingsolver, Southern Living, 25 Apr. 2025

The downtown street closure -- which began at 6 a.m. Wednesday -- is associated with waterline work serving the Benton County Courthouse at 102 N.E. —Nwa Democrat-Gazette, Arkansas Online, 11 Apr. 2025

Rather than a super stark white (which may seem unnaturally light on your waterline), the creamy shade is more understated, giving the appearance of large doe eyes. —Conçetta Ciarlo, Vogue, 1 Apr. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1625, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing waterline

• the waterline

Rhymes for waterline

• acridine
• alkaline
• andesine
• anodyne
• anticline
• arginine
• asinine
• atropine
• benzidine
• borderline
• byzantine
• calamine

Kids Definition

waterline

noun

wa·​ter·​line ˈwȯt-ər-ˌlīn 

ˈwät-

: a line marked on the outside of a ship that matches the surface of the water when the ship floats evenly