breakwater

English

/ˈbɹeɪkˌwɔːtə/

noun
Definitions
  • a construction in or around a harbour designed to break the force of the sea and to provide shelter for vessels lying inside
  • (nautical) a low bulkhead across the forecastle deck of a ship which diverts water breaking over the bows into the scuppers
  • On beaches: a wooden or concrete barrier, usually perpendicular to the shore, intended to prevent the movement of sand along a coast.

Etymology

Compound from English break (break, game won against the server) + English water.

Origin

English

water

Gloss

Timeline

Distribution of cognates by language

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Cognates and derived terms