dune

noun

ˈdün How to pronounce dune (audio)
also ˈdyün
Synonyms of dune
: a hill or ridge of sand piled up by the wind
dunelike
ˈdün-ˌlīk How to pronounce dune (audio)
also ˈdyün-
adjective

Examples of dune in a Sentence

We wandered over the dunes.
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.
The park is renowned for its wave-like dunes made of stark-white gypsum sand. Evie Carrick, Travel + Leisure, 1 July 2026 Alternatively, adventure-seekers will feel right at home at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, which offers forest trails, kayaking routes, and towering dunes overlooking Lake Michigan. Lauren Dana Ellman, Midwest Living, 30 June 2026 Moving to Chesterton, Seman began visiting the dunes daily in 2005, at first taking along his beloved golden retriever, Aslan. Jim Woods, Chicago Tribune, 29 June 2026 Set the scene Surrounded by desert dunes and beaches, the resort provides a haven for those seeking a lifestyle reset. Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 29 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for dune

Word History

Etymology

French, from Old French, from Middle Dutch; akin to Old English dūn down — more at down

First Known Use

1605, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of dune was in 1605

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Dune.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/dune. Accessed 5 Jul. 2026.

Kids Definition

dune

noun
: a hill or ridge of sand piled up by the wind

More from Merriam-Webster on dune

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster