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

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

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 27, 2026

He rode his his first wave in 1959, at the age of 16, from the breakwater at Half Moon Bay.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 25, 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

Devon and Cornwall Police said the bomb, which was found in a residential yard on Tuesday, will be taken to the Torpoint Ferry slipway to be disposed of at sea beyond the breakwater.

From Seattle Times • Feb. 23, 2024

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