Sea: meaning, definitions and examples

Use when referring to a large body of salt water that is smaller than an ocean, often partially enclosed by land.

• They spent their vacation by the Mediterranean Sea.
• The Baltic Sea is known for its unique marine life.

Refers to one of the major bodies of salt water that cover most of the planet, usually hinting at vastness and depth.

• The Atlantic Ocean separates North America from Europe.
• She dreams of sailing across the Pacific Ocean.

An adjective used to describe something related to the ocean, often in scientific or descriptive contexts.

• Oceanic currents play a crucial role in climate regulation.
• The expedition studied oceanic ecosystems.

Describes activities or practices related to traveling by sea, usually referring to sailors or maritime adventures.

• My grandfather had many seafaring tales from his time in the navy.
• They embarked on a seafaring journey around the world.

Refers to a large body of salt water that is smaller than an ocean. It can be used when talking about the water itself and its extent.

• The sea was calm and blue
• We went sailing on the sea

Describes the land right next to a body of water, not necessarily the sea, and can include lakes and rivers. It is a more general term.

• She stood on the shore, looking out over the water
• The picnic was set up right by the shore

Refers to the land along the edge of the sea. It is typically used when talking about the broader region adjacent to the sea.

• They live on the west coast of the country
• She enjoys hiking along the rocky coast

Refers to the area where the land meets the sea, often implying a place where people go to enjoy the beach. It is often used in poetic or leisurely contexts.

• Children were building sandcastles on the seashore
• They took a walk along the seashore at sunset

The term 'sea' can also be repeated in different contexts, such as informal conversation or geographic settings. Its usage often depends on the specific type of sea being referred to.

• After a long hike, they finally reached the Black Sea.
• Fishermen spend long hours navigating the rough seas.

'Body of water' is a generic term that can describe any collection of water, including lakes, rivers, seas, and oceans. It's used in scientific or descriptive contexts where specificity is needed.

• The area has numerous bodies of water, including lakes, rivers, and oceans.
• Pollution of a body of water can have wide-reaching environmental impacts.

This term is more formal and poetic, often used in literature or artistic descriptions to evoke a sense of vastness and beauty of major water bodies.

• The dolphins swam gracefully through the vast aquatic expanse.
• Sailing across the aquatic expanse, they felt a profound connection with nature.

This term refers to a sea that is located inland, typically surrounded by land, and is smaller than an ocean. It is used in geographical and scientific contexts.

• The Caspian Sea is the world's largest inland sea.
• Researchers are studying the unique ecosystem of the inland sea.