English Reference

Word

maritime

Phoneticsmar·itime

US/ˈmɛɹəˌtaɪm/

UK/mˈæɹɪtˌaɪm/

Definitions

01shipping and trade

B2 · Upper Intermediate

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

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

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

“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'.

02coastal areas

B2 · Upper Intermediate

adj. living or located near the sea.

adj. bordering on the sea or situated near the coast.

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

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

Synonyms

Antonyms

03seashore biology

C1 · Advanced Science Technical

adj. describing plants or animals that live on the seashore.

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

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

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

Teaching tip

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

Synonyms

Real-World Examples

“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

Domain

Zoology

This entry

Exam level
CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
Frequency
Frequent
Level
B2 · Upper Intermediate
Updated

QR code

englishreference.com/q/maritime

English Reference