Backshore is a term that is often used in coastal geography and geology. It refers to the area of the beach or shoreline that is located between the high tide line and the dunes or other natural features that mark the boundary between the beach and the land behind it. This area is often subject to erosion from waves and other natural forces, and can be an important area for studying the dynamics of coastal ecosystems.
Definitions
The term backshore is used to describe the area of the beach or shoreline that is located above the high tide line. It is typically characterized by the presence of sand dunes or other natural features that mark the boundary between the beach and the land behind it. This area is often subject to erosion from waves and other natural forces, and can be an important area for studying the dynamics of coastal ecosystems.
Origin
The term backshore has its roots in the Old English word “sceoru,” which means “shore” or “coast.” The prefix “back-” is used to indicate the area behind the shore or beach, and is often used in other contexts to refer to the back or rear of something.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Oxford English Dictionary, backshore is defined as “the part of a beach or shore that lies between the high-water mark and the landward limit of storm waves.” Merriam-Webster defines it as “the part of a beach or shore above the high-water mark that is usually dry and seldom washed by waves except during storms.”
Associations
The backshore is an important area for studying the dynamics of coastal ecosystems, as it is often subject to erosion from waves and other natural forces. It is also an important area for recreation, as it is often used for activities such as sunbathing, picnicking, and beachcombing.
Synonyms
Some synonyms for backshore include beach, shoreline, coast, and foreshore.
Antonyms
Antonyms of backshore include offshore, sea, ocean, and deep water.
The same root words
The same root words as backshore include shore, coast, and seashore.
Example Sentences
- The backshore is an important area for studying the dynamics of coastal ecosystems.
- The beach was crowded with people sunbathing and playing games on the backshore.
- The storm waves had eroded much of the backshore, leaving the dunes exposed to further erosion.
- The backshore is an important habitat for many species of birds and other wildlife.
- The researchers collected samples of sand and sediment from the backshore to study the effects of erosion and other natural forces.