SHINGLE BEACH Meaning and
Definition
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A shingle beach, also referred to as a pebble beach, is a distinct type of coastal beach characterized by the dominance of small, smooth stones or pebbles that cover the surface. Shingle beaches are primarily composed of these rounded rocks, ranging in size from a few centimeters to several centimeters in diameter, which are typically derived from the erosion of nearby cliffs or the movement of sediment along the coastline.
Unlike sandy beaches, shingle beaches lack fine-grained sand particles and instead consist of coarse materials, such as cobbles and pebbles, that make up the majority of the beach substrate. The size and composition of the shingle can vary depending on the geology and local environment. Shingle beaches often have a steep gradient and slope, with the pebbles shifting and moving under the influence of waves and tides, resulting in a dynamic and ever-changing shoreline.
The lack of sandy features on a shingle beach means that it has different characteristics and properties compared to sandy or rocky shorelines. For example, while shingle may be less comfortable to walk on and can be harder to navigate, it offers better drainage and prevents erosion as water can quickly penetrate through the gaps between the stones.
Shingle beaches are commonly found in areas with strong wave action or where the coastal geology is dominated by cliffs and rocky outcrops. They play a crucial role in coastal defenses and conservation as their rough texture dissipates wave energy, protecting underlying structures and habitats from erosion. Shingle beaches also provide unique environments and microhabitats for a variety of plant and animal species, contributing to the biodiversity of coastal ecosystems.
Etymology of SHINGLE BEACH
The etymology of the word shingle beach comes from the Old English word scingle or scindel, which referred to a narrow strip or splinter of wood. Over time, this term evolved to include the meaning of a rough, gravelly shoreline covered in small pebbles or stones, giving rise to the modern term shingle beach.
