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Jetty Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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jetty

[หˆdส’ษ›ti ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

by the sea

A jetty is a structure that projects from the land out into water.

Synonyms

dock, pier, wharf.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
jetty

Jetty is used to describe a structure that extends into the water and is used to protect a shoreline or a harbor. It is often associated with smaller, less commercial purposes compared to a pier or wharf.

  • The town built a new jetty to prevent beach erosion
  • Fishermen often tie their small boats at the jetty
pier

Pier refers to a long, narrow structure that extends from the shore into the water, often used for fishing, boating, or walking. It is commonly associated with recreational activities.

  • We went to the pier to watch the sunset
  • The amusement park is located at the end of the pier
dock

Dock is a general term for an area in a harbor where vessels can be tied up or loaded and unloaded. It's used in both commercial and recreational contexts.

  • The cargo ship is currently in the dock, unloading goods
  • We spent the afternoon fishing from the dock
wharf

Wharf is typically used to describe a platform built on the shore or out from the shore where ships are loaded and unloaded. It is often associated with more commercial or industrial use.

  • The old wharf is no longer used since the new port was built
  • Workers spent the morning unloading crates at the wharf

Examples of usage

  • The fishermen stood at the end of the jetty, hoping for a good catch.
  • The waves crashed against the jetty, sending spray into the air.
Context #2 | Noun

engineering

A jetty is a landing stage or small pier at which boats can dock or be moored.

Synonyms

dock, quay, wharf.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
jetty

A jetty is typically a structure that projects from the land out into the water, often used to protect the shoreline or to serve as a landing place for boats. Jetty can also refer to smaller constructions for boats in marinas or harbors.

  • The fishermen tied their boats to the jetty
  • The children loved jumping off the jetty into the water
dock

A dock is a general term for a place where ships or boats are anchored, loaded, or unloaded. It can be part of a larger harbor or port.

  • The ship is scheduled to dock at 3 PM tomorrow
  • Working on the dock can be quite labor-intensive
quay

A quay is a solid, stationary, usually concrete structure along the shore where ships load and unload cargo or passengers. Quays are typically found in ports or harbors.

  • The cargo was quickly moved from the ship to the quay
  • They enjoyed their evening walk along the quay
wharf

A wharf is similar to a quay but may consist of more elaborate facilities, including warehouses and equipment for loading and unloading ships. Wharves are often found in commercial shipping areas.

  • The old wharf has been converted into a bustling marketplace
  • The workers at the wharf managed the whole operation efficiently

Examples of usage

  • The jetty was built to provide a safe place for boats to unload their cargo.
  • Several boats were tied up at the jetty, waiting to be serviced.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

History

  • The earliest jetties date back to Ancient Rome, where they were used to protect harbors from waves and sediment.
  • Throughout the Middle Ages, coastal towns built jetties to enhance trade by making it easier for ships to dock and unload.

Engineering

  • Jetties are often made of sturdy materials like wood or concrete to withstand strong waves and currents.
  • They play a crucial role in managing coastal erosion by altering wave patterns and protecting shorelines.

Pop Culture

  • Jetties appear in many movies and books as places where adventure begins, often seen in scenes featuring boats or mysterious waters.
  • In seaside towns, jetties are popular spots for fishing and family outings, contributing to local culture and leisure.

Ecology

  • Jetties can impact local ecosystems by creating unique habitats for marine life, attracting fish and seabirds.
  • The construction of jetties also leads scientists to study sediment patterns and their effects on coastal biodiversity.

Origin of 'jetty'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Old French 'jetรฉe,' meaning 'thrown' or 'projected,' referring to how it extends into the water.
  • In Middle English, the term appeared as 'jetti,' showing its long-standing use in maritime language.

The word 'jetty' originated from the French word 'jetee', meaning 'a projecting structure'. Jetty has been used in English since the 15th century to refer to a structure that extends into a body of water. Jetty is commonly used in coastal areas to provide a safe harbor for boats and ships.

See also: jet, jettison.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #16,750, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.