coastline

[kohst-lahyn]

noun

1. the outline or contour of a coast; shoreline.

2. the land and water lying adjacent to a shoreline.

coastline

/ ˈkəʊstˌlaɪn /

noun

1. the outline of a coast, esp when seen from the sea, or the land adjacent to it

Word History and Origins

Origin of coastline¹

First recorded in 1855–60; coast + line ¹

Example Sentences

Western Australia has "eco-barriers" which fully section off smaller bits of coastline with a more tightly woven netting – offering better protection for swimmers, though not surfers, while also minimising the harm to marine life.

From BBC

“Essentially, they’re the condos and apartment complexes of the animals that live on our coastline. When they disappear, the animals have no place to live.”

From Los Angeles Times

The new design includes California’s redwoods, poppies and coastline.

From Los Angeles Times

Fishermen say BP plans to build the artificial reef just 4km from the coastline, describing the position as unfavourable to attract fish.

From BBC

Along the California coastline, overlapping layers of regulations make it hard to build at any time.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• bank 
• beach 
• seaboard 
• shore 
• shoreline