SEAWALL Meaning and
Definition
-
A seawall is a manmade structure built along the coastline or the edge of a body of water, such as a lake, river, or ocean, to protect the land or nearby areas from the destructive effects of waves, tides, and erosion. Typically made of concrete, stone, or steel, a seawall is designed to withstand the force of crashing waves and storm surges.
The primary purpose of a seawall is to act as a barrier, intercepting and dissipating the energy of the waves before they can reach the land. By reducing the impact of the waves, a seawall helps prevent erosion and flooding, and protects structures on the shore from damage. It also helps to stabilize the coastline and maintain the integrity of nearby infrastructure, such as roads, buildings, and utilities.
Seawalls can vary in height and shape depending on the specific location and conditions. They may be constructed with a sloping or vertical face, reinforced with concrete or other materials to ensure durability. Sometimes, a seawall is accompanied by additional structures, such as groynes or breakwaters, to further deflect or dissipate the energy of the waves.
While seawalls provide significant protection, they can also have unintended consequences. They may disrupt natural coastal processes, alter wave patterns, and impact the ecology of the surrounding area. Therefore, careful planning and consideration of the potential environmental impacts are essential when constructing or maintaining seawalls.
Common Misspellings for SEAWALL
Etymology of SEAWALL
The word "seawall" is derived from the combination of two terms: "sea" and "wall".
"Sea" comes from the Old English word "sǣ" which meant "sea" or "lake". It is also related to the Proto-Germanic word "saiwiz". This word has cognates in other Germanic languages, such as the Old Norse "sær", and the Dutch "zee".
The word "wall" originates from the Old English word "weall", meaning "rampart" or "defensive fortification". It has roots in Germanic and Old Norse languages, with the Old High German term "wallan" and the Old Norse word "vǫllr".
When combined, the term "seawall" refers to a wall-like structure built along a shoreline to protect land against the force of waves and currents.
Similar spelling words for SEAWALL
- seel,
- Sealey,
- seal,
- Sewell,
- selle,
- Seyal,
- seawell,
- Sewall,
- selley,
- sell,
- seale,
- sealy.
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
