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
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.
Plan Your Trip Amelia Island, Florida The group is aligned on a beach trip, one with pristine beaches and a generally relaxed atmosphere—and Amelia Island, one of Florida’s barrier islands, should fit the bill. Lydia Mansel, Southern Living, 4 Apr. 2025 Miami Beach is a barrier island for the mainland and 93% of properties are in FEMA flood protection zones — which means all mortgages are required to have flood insurance. Ashley Miznazi, Miami Herald, 4 Apr. 2025 The group of kids gathered largely along A1A near the intersection of East Las Olas Boulevard while some smaller groups congregated nearby in other parts of the barrier island, Liening said. Angie Dimichele, Sun Sentinel, 28 Mar. 2025 The little village of Boca Grande sits on the seven-mile-long Gasparilla Island, one of the barrier islands on the west coast about 100 miles south of Tampa, ringed by white sand beaches. Mary Forgione, Forbes, 14 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for barrier island

Word History

First Known Use

1773, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of barrier island was in 1773

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Cite this Entry

“Barrier island.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/barrier%20island. Accessed 14 Apr. 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

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