jetty
UK: ˈdʒɛti | US: ˈdʒɛti
n. a structure built out into the water to protect a harbor or coast from waves or to provide a landing place for boats
n. (archaic) a jet or stream of liquid
The word "jetty" originates from the Old French jeter (to throw), derived from Latin iactare (to throw repeatedly). The suffix "-ty" (from Latin -tatem) forms nouns indicating a state or condition. Originally, "jetty" referred to a "projection" or "something thrown out," later narrowing to its modern maritime meaning—a structure "projecting" into water. The dual historical meanings (stream vs. structure) reflect the shared logic of forceful projection.
The fishermen tied their boats to the wooden jetty.
Waves crashed against the stone jetty during the storm.
The harbor’s jetty provides shelter for small vessels.
(Archaic) A jetty of water erupted from the broken pipe.
Engineers reinforced the jetty to prevent coastal erosion.