seawater

[see-waw-ter, -wot-er]

noun

1. the salt water in or from the sea.

seawater

1. Salt water, normally with a salinity of 35 parts per thousand (3.5%), in or coming from the sea or ocean. Although seawater contains more than 70 elements, most seawater salts are ions of six major elements: chloride, sodium, sulfate, magnesium, calcium, and potassium. The major sources of these salts are underwater volcanic eruptions, chemical reactions involving volcanic matter, and chemical weathering of rocks on the coasts. Seawater is believed to have had the same salinity for billions of years.

Word History and Origins

Origin of seawater¹

before 1000; Middle English see water, Old English sǣwæter; sea, water

Example Sentences

When you leave the beach rinse any sand and seawater off their coat and paws with tap water to stop it causing any irritation.

From BBC

McCaffrey’s agency is one of several that are also considering seawater desalination.

From Los Angeles Times

Mr Dorn said that before leaving their home, he had moved his electronics up to their loft, hoping that even if seawater penetrates the building it would not reach the rafters.

From BBC

Mary died aged 10 from hepatitis, contracted from polluted seawater.

From BBC

Harmful bacteria and algae can often spread more easily in warmer seawater, which isn't treated with cleaning chemicals like your local pool.

From BBC