dune

noun

ˈdün How to pronounce dune (audio)
 also  ˈdyün
: a hill or ridge of sand piled up by the wind
dunelike
ˈdün-ˌlīk How to pronounce dune (audio)
 also  ˈdyün-
adjective

Examples of dune in a Sentence

We wandered over the dunes.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The vehicle tracks covered more than two miles of the 680-foot-tall dunes. Sarah Kuta, Smithsonian Magazine, 12 Feb. 2025 The landscape itself is a stunning fusion of sea, lagoons, and dunes. Abby Montanez, Robb Report, 11 Feb. 2025 The dunes roll through the Tularosa Basin like bright white waves, creating a landscape unlike anything else on this planet. Graham Averill, Outside Online, 4 Feb. 2025 Snow Canyon State Park, Utah This hidden gem near St. George features red sandstone formations, lava flows, and dunes that take on a surreal glow. Staff Report, Hartford Courant, 2 Feb. 2025 See all Example Sentences for dune 

Word History

Etymology

French, from Old French, from Middle Dutch; akin to Old English dūn down — more at down

First Known Use

1605, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of dune was in 1605

Dictionary Entries Near dune

Cite this Entry

“Dune.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/dune. Accessed 20 Feb. 2025.

Kids Definition

dune

noun
: a hill or ridge of sand piled up by the wind

More from Merriam-Webster on dune

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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