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

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

From Los Angeles Times

The work of running a port is a constant maintenance of channels, breakwaters, bridges, and the machinery of seagoing commerce.

From Los Angeles Times

Mr Ramsay said there was evidence that a "lifeguard on breakwater had worked in the past".

From BBC

He added they would start monitoring the breakwater from the late May bank holiday on Monday, which is the start of lifeguards' summer season.

From BBC

The system of floaters attaches directly to preexisting structures — like breakwaters, wharfs and jetties — and produces energy from the constant motion of the waves.

From Los Angeles Times