noun

sandbank

SAND-bank

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Sandbank (noun) means a ridge of sand near a shore that is partly or fully covered by water and can be a hazard to boats. Example: “The ferry had to change course to avoid a sandbank.”

noun

A ridge of sand near a shore that is partly or fully covered by water and can be a hazard to boats.

"The ferry had to change course to avoid a sandbank."

"At low tide, part of the sandbank was visible above the water."

"Local charts mark every sandbank along the estuary."

How to use sandbank

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA sandbank is a underwater or partly exposed ridge of sand close to a shore.

When to use it

This is a plain, everyday word used in both general and nautical contexts.

Memory tip

Picture a bank of sand built up just offshore, hidden or half-hidden by the tide.

Trace the full origin ↓

Common pairings

run aground on a sandbank a shifting sandbank the sandbank was exposed at low tide

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C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

Test yourself on “sandbank” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage →

Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

The ferry had to change course to avoid a _____.

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.

Origin: English

Synonyms

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sandbar

Related words

spit reef sandbar shoal

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.

What is the meaning of sandbank?

"sandbank" (noun) means a ridge of sand near a shore that is partly or fully covered by water and can be a hazard to boats.

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