# maritime

/ˈmɛɹəˌtaɪm/ (US) · /mˈæɹɪtˌaɪm/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/maritime
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Senses

### 1. shipping and trade

adjective · CEFR B2

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

For teachers: 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'.

### 2. coastal areas

adjective · CEFR B2

living or located near the sea.

For teachers: 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.

### 3. seashore biology

adjective · CEFR C1 · Technical

describing plants or animals that live on the seashore.

For teachers: 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.

## Examples

- The city has a long maritime history.
- The museum features a large collection of maritime artifacts, including old maps and wooden ship models.
- The country's maritime borders are strictly patrolled to protect local fishing rights and prevent the illegal transport of goods across international waters.

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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.