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 hard-to-miss color carried down in her waterlines, while her pursed lips were painted in a light gloss. —Kaleigh Werner, Footwear News, 17 June 2025

Better yet, both sides are safe to use on your waterline, allowing for extra play. —Annie Blackman, Allure, 26 Mar. 2025

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

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