Plural of coast; the edges of land meeting the sea, or areas near the shore.
From Old French coste, from Latin costa meaning 'rib, side.' The metaphorical connection between a body's ribs and land's edge reflects how coastal areas form the 'sides' or boundaries of continents. Also used as a verb meaning to move without effort.
The word 'coast' beautifully captures the anatomical metaphor ancient speakers used - seeing coastlines as the 'ribs' of the earth where land meets water. This same word evolved to mean effortless movement, as in 'coasting downhill,' reflecting how ships could glide along coastal waters with favorable winds.
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