noun
breakwater; wave-absorbing dyke
A coastal structure designed to absorb wave energy and protect harbors or shorelines. Technical term used in civil engineering and coastal management.
この港には大きな消波堤が設置されている。
A large breakwater has been installed at this port.
消波堤のおかげで波が穏やかになった。
Thanks to the breakwater, the waves have become calm.
Compound of 消波 (wave-dissipating) and 堤 (embankment). The exact historical derivation is uncertain; the spelling is conventionally associated with the meaning.