windbreak

noun

wind·​break ˈwin(d)-ˌbrāk How to pronounce windbreak (audio)
Synonyms of windbreaknext
: a growth of trees or shrubs serving to break the force of wind
broadly : a shelter (such as a fence) from the wind

Examples of windbreak in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
This is because Amazonis Mensa acts as a windbreak, pushing material blown by winds in separate orientations. — Brett Tingley, Space.com, 15 Oct. 2026 Two years before Dan had planted 50 young spruces for a windbreak about 30 yards from his house. — Al Dawson, Outdoor Life, 15 Oct. 2026 The team thinks the pole leaned against the wall to form a windbreak or simple hut, and experiments showed five meters is about the length such a structure needs. — Jacek Krywko, ArsTechnica, 9 Oct. 2026 Builders would also construct curved walls to serve as windbreaks, which would not only slow gusts but also divert airborne embers during a fire. — Jaclyn Cosgrove, Los Angeles Times, 24 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for windbreak

Word History

First Known Use

1835, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of windbreak was in 1835

Rhymes for windbreak

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Browse Nearby Words

wind bracing
windbreak
windbreaker
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Windbreak.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/windbreak. Accessed 20 Oct. 2026.

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Kids Definition

windbreak

noun
wind·​break -ˌbrāk How to pronounce windbreak (audio)
: something (as a growth of trees) that serves as a shelter from the wind

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