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Definition of breakwater

breakwater

/ˈbreɪkˌwɔːtər/
break · wa · ter
Plural:breakwaters
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breakwater Lexical Profile

breakwater Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A permanent barrier constructed out into a body of water to protect a coast, harbor, or anchorage from the force of waves.

Example

"The fishing boats stayed safely moored behind the stone breakwater during the winter gale."

2

Something that acts as a buffer or defense against a disruptive force, trend, or influence.

Example

"Strong local institutions served as a breakwater against sudden economic instability."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for breakwater

• Nearby Words

breaktime
breakup
breakwall
breakwater
bream
breast
breastbone

Word Origin & Etymology

First recorded in the early 18th century, formed as a transparent compound of the verb 'break' and the noun 'water', referring to a barrier that breaks the force of oncoming waves.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Breakwater. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/breakwater
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