What does lagoon mean?
A lagoon is a shallow body of water separated from the sea or another larger body of water by a natural barrier such as a sandbar, reef, coral formation, or spit. In its most common geographical sense, a lagoon is coastal and may be connected to the sea by a narrow channel. The word is also used more broadly for a calm, enclosed stretch of water, especially in descriptions of scenery and travel. Lagoons are often associated with tropical or subtropical coasts, where mangroves, coral reefs, and shallow marine habitats may be found around their edges. The term can carry a strong visual and emotional appeal: lagoons are commonly imagined as calm, blue, and scenic. In literary and descriptive writing, “lagoon” may also suggest a still or protected inland area of water, although a lake is more precise for a body of water entirely surrounded by land.
A shallow body of water separated from the sea by a sandbank, reef, or other natural barrier.
"Boats rested in the lagoon beyond the coral reef."
In geographical usage, this is the standard and dominant sense.
A calm or enclosed stretch of water, especially in a descriptive or literary context.
"At dusk, the hills reflected in the wide lagoon."
This broader sense is literary and less geographically precise.
The plural is lagoons, with the stress remaining on the second syllable.
"The islands and lagoons attract divers from around the world."
A lagoon is a sea that has been cut off from the ocean, often creating some of the world's most striking natural swimming pools.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does lagoon come from?
The English word “lagoon” comes from Italian laguna, meaning “a shallow body of water” or “lagoon,” which derives from Latin lacuna, meaning “a pool, hollow, or gap.” The Italian form developed in a maritime context, particularly around the Venice lagoon. Latin lacuna also underlies cognates and related forms in several European languages, including lacuna, lacunary, and lacunae in English.
Related word forms
How lagoon is actually used
The word is common in English worldwide. In technical and geographical descriptions, it usually specifically means a shallow coastal body of water separated from the sea by a barrier; the broader sense is more literary.
Easily confused with lagoon
A lagoon is separated from the sea by a natural barrier, whereas a lake is a body of water surrounded by land.