dunes

word · lemma: dune

Definition

Large hills or ridges of sand formed by the wind, usually found in deserts or near beaches.

Usage & Nuances

"Dunes" is always plural except when describing a single hill ("a dune"). Commonly used in geography, tourism, and nature contexts; collocates with 'sand', 'desert', 'coastal', 'rolling', and 'wind-blown'. Not used for small piles of sand or soil.

Example Sentences

The children played on the dunes by the beach.

basic

The desert is full of high dunes.

basic

Plants sometimes grow on the dunes.

basic

From the top of the dunes, you can see the whole coastline.

natural

The wind shapes the dunes every day, so the landscape is always changing.

natural

Tourists love taking pictures of the dramatic dunes at sunset.

natural