sandbank
1 synonym for sandbank, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — A ridge of sand near a shore that is partly or fully covered by water and can be a hazard to boats.
Synonyms
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
How to use sandbank
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
run aground on a sandbank
a shifting sandbank
the sandbank was exposed at low tide
This is a plain, everyday word used in both general and nautical contexts.
Etymology
Sandbank is formed in English from sand and bank. Similar compound words exist in other Germanic languages, such as Dutch zandbank, German Sandbank and Swedish sandbank, all with a comparable meaning.
Full origin of sandbank →Frequently asked questions
What is a sandbank?
It is a raised ridge of sand near a coast or riverbank that is often covered by water.
Why are sandbanks dangerous for ships?
A vessel can run aground on a sandbank because the water above it is shallower than the surrounding area.
Is a sandbank the same as a sandbar?
Yes, sandbar is used as another word for the same feature.
