Jetty

/ˈdʒeti/ noun

Definition

A structure that extends into water, usually made of concrete or stone, used to protect a harbor or allow boats to dock.

Etymology

From Old French 'jetée,' the past participle of 'jeter' meaning 'to throw.' Literally, a jetty is something 'thrown out' into the water, as builders dump stone and earth to create the structure.

Kelly Says

The word 'jetty' perfectly captures the construction method—you literally throw tons of rocks and stone into the water to build a barrier or dock, and the word itself comes from that throwing motion!

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.