# estuary

/ˈɛstʃuˌɛɹi/ (US) · /ˈɛstjuːəɹˌi/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

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

## Definition

the wide part of a river where it meets the sea. Here, the fresh water from the river mixes with the salty water from the ocean.

For teachers: the tidal mouth of a large river, where the tide meets the stream. Characterised by brackish water and significant sediment deposition.

## Examples

- Many birds live in the muddy estuary.
- The city was built on the estuary to allow large ships to travel from the ocean into the heart of the country.
- Ecologists are concerned that rising sea levels will alter the delicate salinity of the estuary, potentially destroying the breeding grounds of several local fish species.

## Usage notes

- Often used in the phrase 'Estuary English' to describe a specific accent from the Thames area.

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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.