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

See Examples For:

breakwater

He noted that the federal contribution to rebuild the breakwater, which creates the inner harbor that allows fishermen and lobstermen to work, was $6 million.

From Slate ● Jun. 16, 2026

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

“For example, the breakwater protects the beach from large waves, keeping the beach wider than it would naturally be.”

From Los Angeles Times ● Sep. 15, 2025

Inside the harbor the water was calm, and as they moved past the massive breakwater Lyra began to feel unsteady from the lack of motion.

From "The Golden Compass" by Philip Pullman