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barrier island
noun
: a long broad sandy island lying parallel to a shore that is built up by the action of waves, currents, and winds and that protects the shore from the effects of the ocean
Examples of barrier island in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
One of our favorite islands for romance is Anna Maria Island, a barrier island near Bradenton that’s known for its crystal-clear water and soft, sugar-white sand.
—Miami Herald, 23 Jan. 2025
But collectively, The Palm Beaches have got a whole other side to discover right outside the hotels that line the barrier islands and along 47 miles of beach.
—John Oseid, Forbes, 21 Jan. 2025
The biggest news of late on this barrier island just minutes west of downtown Sarasota is the fall 2024 opening of super-luxe St. Regis Resort Longboat Key, positioned roughly mid-island on Longboat Key.
—Terry Ward, Travel + Leisure, 15 Jan. 2025
Even with the water damage and the mold and the recognition that the wealthiest part of town is on a barrier island that should never be expected to stay put, many in Englewood still see their city as a gem; an Old Florida holdout in one of the fastest-growing regions in the country.
—Stephanie Hanes, The Christian Science Monitor, 7 Jan. 2025
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Word History
First Known Use
1773, in the meaning defined above
Dictionary Entries Near barrier island
Cite this Entry
“Barrier island.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/barrier%20island. Accessed 30 Jan. 2025.
Kids Definition
barrier island
noun
: a long broad sandy island parallel to a shore that is built up by the action of waves, currents, and winds
More from Merriam-Webster on barrier island
Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about barrier island
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