Definition

A structure built along the coast to stop waves from eroding the land and to protect the shore.

Example

The city built a seawall to protect the beach from storm damage.

Conversation

Have you seen the new seawall they built at the beach?

Yeah, I noticed it last weekend; it looks really sturdy.

I think it's a great idea to protect the shore from erosion.

Definitely! It should help a lot during storms.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Seawall → The word is formed from "sea" (from Old English *sǣ*, meaning the ocean or large body of saltwater) and "wall" (from Old English *weall*, meaning a structure built to enclose or protect). A seawall is a protective structure built to defend against the sea.

Memory Tip

Think of the 'sea' as the large body of water and 'wall' as a protective barrier. A seawall is a wall that protects against the sea.

Visually Confused Words