breakwater

American  

[breyk-waw-ter, -wot-er] / ˈbreɪkˌwɔ tər, -ˌwɒt ər /

noun

1. a barrier that breaks the force of waves, as before a harbor.

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breakwater British  

/ ˈbreɪkˌwɔːtə /

noun

1. Also called: mole.  a massive wall built out into the sea to protect a shore or harbour from the force of waves

2. another name for groyne

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breakwater Scientific  

/ brāk′wô′tər /

1. An offshore barrier, such as a jetty, that protects a harbor or shore from the full impact of waves.

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Etymology

Origin of breakwater

First recorded in 1715–25; break + water

Example Sentences

Markets are focused on the rupee as it dwindles toward the psychological breakwater of 100 to the dollar.

From Barron's • May 21, 2026

Go for the sea views and breakwater strolls, as well as a sophisticated crafts market.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 27, 2026

Rebecca Mansell, representing the family, said David did not see this because he entered the breakwater further down the beach from the sign.

From BBC • May 21, 2025

The Port of Camas-Washougal completed a $1.4 million breakwater access ramp project in 2022.

From Seattle Times • Feb. 22, 2024

“Try to remember it always,” he said once Gogol had reached him, leading him slowly back across the breakwater, to where his mother and Sonia stood waiting.

From "The Namesake" by Jhumpa Lahiri