Coast

Definition

Coast is used as both a noun and a verb. As a noun, it refers to the land along the edge of a sea, ocean, or large lake. As a verb, it means to move smoothly and effortlessly, often due to momentum, or to proceed with little effort or resistance.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /koʊst/
• Respelling: KOHST

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /kəʊst/
• Respelling: KOHST

Etymology

The word "coast" comes from the Old French "coste," meaning "side" or "slope," derived from the Latin "costa," meaning "rib" or "side." The word was adopted into Middle English to describe the land along a sea or ocean.

Derivatives

• Coastal (adjective)
• Coasting (verb/noun)
• Coastline (noun)
• Coaster (noun)
• Intercoastal (adjective)

Synonyms

• Shore
• Seaside
• Beach

Antonyms

• Inland
• Interior
• Center

Usage

The term "coast" is widely used to describe geographic regions next to large bodies of water and in transportation contexts. For example, "They live on the west coast," or "The car began to coast down the hill."

Related Terms

• Bay: A body of water partially enclosed by land but with a wide mouth, adjacent to the coast.
• Harbor: A sheltered place along a coast where ships can dock safely.
• Ocean: The vast body of salt water that covers most of Earth's surface.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• The land along the edge of a sea, ocean, or large lake: Refers to the region where land meets the sea or ocean.
  • Example: "They enjoyed a vacation on the California coast."

Verb

• To move smoothly without much effort or power: Describes movement powered by momentum rather than continuous force.
  • Example: "The bike coasted down the hill."
• To proceed with minimal effort: Used metaphorically to describe achieving something without significant exertion.
  • Example: "He coasted through the test with ease."