beach

beach · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    A pebbly or sandy shore, especially by the ocean.

  2. 2.

    An area by water used for leisure.

  3. 3.

    Run or haul (a boat) onto a beach.

  4. 4.

    (Of a whale or sea creature) Become stranded on a beach.

Forms

plural: beaches

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    beach bum — Someone who spends a lot of time at the beach.
  • •
    beachhead — A defended position on a beach; initial foothold.
  • •
    beach ball — A large inflatable ball for beach games.
  • •
    hit the beach — Go to the beach; make a beach landing.
  • •
    life's a beach — A playful expression meaning life is good.

Related words

See also: coast, sand, seaside, shore
Synonyms: coast, seaside, shore, strand

Etymology

Possibly from Old English bæce or bece ("stream"), or from a dialectal word meaning "shingle" or "pebbles."