Pronunciation: [kˈə͡ʊstwa͡ɪz] (IPA) 
The word "coastwise" is spelled /koʊstwaɪz/. The IPA phonetic transcription breakdown of this word is as follows: /k/ is pronounced as the "k" sound, /oʊ/ is pronounced as the "oh" sound, /s/ is pronounced as the "s" sound, /t/ is pronounced as the "t" sound, /w/ is pronounced as the "w" sound, /aɪ/ is pronounced as the "ai" sound, and /z/ is pronounced as the "z" sound. The word coastwise means along or parallel to the coast.
Coastwise, often used as an adjective, refers to an action or movement that takes place along or near a coast. It describes activities, transportation, or trade that occurs along the shoreline or within close proximity to it. It implies movement or direction parallel to the coast, typically pertaining to travel, shipping, or commerce.
Coastwise can also refer to the legal authority or regulations concerning maritime activities conducted within the territorial waters close to a specific country's coast. This term is commonly used in international maritime law, designating operations or restrictions applied to shipping or boat traffic within a country's coastal zone.
In a broader sense, coastwise can also describe the general characteristics or features associated with coastal regions. It may encompass the natural environment, climate, resources, flora, and fauna found in these areas. It can be used to describe specific industries reliant on coastal regions, such as fishing, tourism, or coastal management.
Overall, coastwise refers to activities, movements, or characteristics directly linked to coastal areas. It indicates a close proximity or alignment with the coastline and highlights the distinct attributes and importance of these regions in various contexts, including transportation, commerce, legal regulations, and environmental factors.
By or along the coast.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "coastwise" is derived from the combination of two words: "coast" and "wise".
The term "coast" comes from the Old French word "coste", which referred to the side or border of something. It ultimately traces back to the Latin word "costa", meaning rib or side. In English, "coast" initially meant the part of land that is near or borders the sea.
The word "wise" in this context means "in the direction of" or "toward". It is derived from the Old English word "wisan", which means "to direct, guide, or show the way". Over time, "wise" evolved to be used as a suffix to indicate direction or manner.
Combining the two elements, "coastwise" signifies "in the direction of the coast" or "toward the coast".
