English Reference
adjective

maritime

adj.
US /ˈmɛɹəˌtaɪm/ UK /mˈæɹɪtˌaɪm/ mar·itime

  1. 01 B2 Upper Intermediate

    relating to ships, sailing, or business done on the sea.

    relating to navigation, commerce, or military activity on the sea.

    Simple

    The city has a long maritime history as a major trading port.

    In context

    International maritime law governs the conduct of vessels in neutral waters to ensure the safety of global trade routes.

    Usage

    Often used in formal compound terms like 'maritime law' or 'maritime history'.

  2. 02 B2 Upper Intermediate

    living or located near the sea.

    bordering on the sea or situated near the coast.

    Simple

    The maritime provinces are known for their beautiful beaches and cool weather.

    In context

    The region's maritime climate is characterized by mild winters and high humidity due to the proximity of the ocean.

  3. 03 C1 Advanced Technical Science

    describing plants or animals that live on the seashore.

    inhabiting the seashore or living along the coast; specifically distinguished from 'marine' which refers to life within the open sea.

    Simple

    Scientists are studying the maritime plants that grow in the salty sand.

    In context

    The survey identified several rare maritime species that thrive in the intertidal zone but cannot survive further inland.

    Teacher's tip

    In biology, 'maritime' usually refers to the shore, while 'marine' refers to the water itself.

    littoral

He called for more organized and harmonized systems for sharing maritime information among neighbouring countries, including Djibouti, Yemen and Somalia.

UN News· 26 Aug 2026

Charlie Eastaugh, director of maritime and small boats at the Border Security Command, told the BBC that "last Thursday alone, the French prevented all three of the boats that tried to cross".

BBC News· 20 Aug 2026
This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Frequent
Updated