atoll

as in island
a ring-shaped land mass surrounded by water and made of coral

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Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of atoll In 1982, Aldabra became the first atoll to gain UNESCO World Heritage protection status. Kevin Gepford, Smithsonian Magazine, 15 Apr. 2025 In the Bikini atoll where 23 nuclear tests were conducted (including the largest ever nuclear explosion), biodiversity studies conducted fifty years hence show remarkable recovery. Saleem H. Ali, Forbes.com, 13 Apr. 2025 The Marshall Islands, a group of 34 atolls and islands in the North Pacific, is home to 82,000 people and a key American military installation, the US Army Garrison Kwajalein, which helps in ballistic missile testing and tracking. Brad Lendon, CNN Money, 3 Apr. 2025 The resort's buildings are not exactly new; Le Méridien Bora Bora used to sit on this plot of the atoll, but following an extensive renovation and rebrand, as of September 2024, The Westin Bora Bora Resort & Spa offers a completely new experience. Jess Feldman, Travel + Leisure, 17 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for atoll
Recent Examples of Synonyms for atoll
Noun
  • The kitchen’s highlights include a large island, two dishwashers, a double oven, gas stovetop and a hammered copper farm sink.
    David Caraccio, Sacbee.com, 7 June 2025
  • Some fisherwomen have objected to being photographed—and put on social media—by tourists, who are vacationing on the island in increasing numbers.
    Robin Wright, New Yorker, 7 June 2025
Noun
  • And speaking of deliciousness, a bonfire dinner on Calico’s deck easily closes the deal on a great day on the cay.
    DeMarco Williams, Forbes.com, 27 May 2025
  • Consisting of more than 60 mountainous islands, along with mysterious cays and uninhabited islets, the destination is home to awe-inspiring hikes, succulent seafood, and world-renowned boating.
    AFAR Media, AFAR Media, 22 May 2025
Noun
  • Paddling a kayak through narrow waterways, snorkeling on coral reefs, enjoying a secluded picnic in one of the islets, learning about traditional Polynesian palm weaving are all activities that slow down guests to the tranquil rhythm of island life.
    Emese Maczko, Forbes.com, 23 May 2025
  • China and Japan have traded accusations of airspace violations near a group of islets in the contested East China Sea, currently administered by the United States treaty ally.
    Ryan Chan, MSNBC Newsweek, 5 May 2025
Noun
  • Using cutting-edge camera technology, the film takes us through coral reefs, kelp forests, and other underwater environments, while also wrestling with what human civilization is doing to this fragile but vital biome.
    K. Thor Jensen, PC Magazine, 6 June 2025
  • Through underwater sequences featuring coral reefs, kelp forests, and the vast ocean life, Attenborough shares why a healthy ocean keeps the entire planet stable and flourishing.
    DeVonne Goode, Parents, 5 June 2025

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“Atoll.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/atoll. Accessed 10 Jun. 2025.

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