# dune

/ˈdun/ (US) · /djˈuːn/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/dune
Updated: 2026-05-07

## Definition

a hill of sand that the wind has made. You usually find these in deserts or near the ocean.

For teachers: a mound, ridge, or hill of loose sand heaped up by the wind. Commonly found in arid regions or along coastal shorelines.

## Examples

- The children ran down the tall sand dune.
- Strong winds constantly reshape the dune, making the desert landscape look different every morning.
- Coastal vegetation plays a vital role in stabilizing the dune system, preventing the sand from encroaching upon inland infrastructure during severe storms.

## Usage notes

- Often used in the compound 'sand dune'.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.