Barrier spit – Definition & Meaning

A barrier spit is a geographical term that refers to a long and narrow landform that extends from the mainland into a body of water. It is a natural barrier that separates a lagoon, bay, or estuary from the ocean. Barrier spits are formed by the deposition of sediment by waves and currents, and they are usually composed of sand or gravel.

Definitions

According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), a barrier spit is “a long, narrow accumulation of sand or gravel that extends from the mainland into a body of water, forming a barrier between the open sea and a lagoon, bay, or estuary.” The United States Geological Survey (USGS) defines it as “a depositional feature that forms where a beach extends out into a body of water, and sediment is transported along the coast by longshore drift.”

Origin

Barrier spits are formed by the natural process of sediment deposition. Waves and currents carry sediment along the coast, and when they encounter a change in the coastline, such as a headland or bay, they deposit the sediment. Over time, this sediment accumulates and forms a barrier spit.

Meaning in different dictionaries

According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, a barrier spit is “a long, narrow, sandy or shingly point of land that extends from the mainland into a body of water.” The Oxford English Dictionary defines it as “a narrow strip of land projecting into the sea or a lake, forming a barrier between the open water and a lagoon, bay, or estuary.”

Associations

Barrier spits are often associated with coastal erosion and sea-level rise. As sea levels rise, barrier spits may become submerged, and the lagoon or bay they protect may become more vulnerable to storm surges and flooding.

Synonyms

Synonyms for barrier spit include sand spit, tombolo, and sandy barrier.

Antonyms

Antonyms for barrier spit include inlet, bay, and estuary.

The same root words

There are no significant root words associated with barrier spit.

Example Sentences

1. The barrier spit protected the lagoon from the rough waves of the ocean.
2. The sand spit was formed by the deposition of sediment by the waves and currents.
3. The tombolo connected the island to the mainland.
4. The sandy barrier prevented the erosion of the coastline.
5. The inlet provided a safe harbor for the fishing boats.