Coastal

Definition

Coastal refers to anything related to or located near a coast or shoreline. It can describe geographical areas, habitats, and activities associated with the land that meets the sea.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈkoʊstəl/
• Respelling: KOH-stuhl

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈkəʊstəl/
• Respelling: KOH-stuhl

The pronunciation of "coastal" is consistent in both American and British English, with minor differences in vowel sound articulation.

Etymology

The word "coastal" is derived from the noun "coast," which comes from the Old French "coste," meaning "side" or "rib," and ultimately from the Latin "costa," meaning "rib" or "side." The adjective form "coastal" emerged in the early 19th century to describe things related to the coast.

Derivatives

• Coast (noun)
• Coastline (noun)
• Coasting (verb)
• Coastal plain (noun)
• Coastal erosion (noun)

Synonyms

• Shoreline
• Littoral
• Seaside

Antonyms

• Inland
• Interior
• Central

Usage

The term "coastal" is often used to describe regions or areas near the sea, such as "coastal cities," "coastal erosion," or "coastal habitats." It can also refer to features or activities associated with the coast, like "coastal defenses" or "coastal tourism."

Related Terms

• Estuary: The tidal mouth of a large river, where the tide meets the stream.
• Harbor: A place on the coast where vessels may find shelter, especially one protected from rough water by piers, jetties, and other artificial structures.
• Bay: A broad inlet of the sea where the land curves inward.

Detailed Definitions

Adjective

• Related to or located near the coast: Describes areas, regions, or activities that are situated along or near the sea.
  • Example: "The coastal town is known for its beautiful beaches and seafood."
• Involving activities along the coast: Refers to economic or recreational activities that occur near or on the coast.
  • Example: "Fishing and tourism are major coastal industries."