low-lying

adjective

low-ly·​ing ˈlō-ˈlī-iŋ How to pronounce low-lying (audio)
Synonyms of low-lyingnext
1
: rising relatively little above the base of measurement
low-lying hills
2
: lying below the normal level, surface, or the base of measurement or mean elevation
low-lying clouds

Synonyms of low-lying

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Examples of low-lying in a Sentence

the low-lying hills blocked our view of the sea only a little bit
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
There wasn’t a trail, and Welty headed straight into the low-lying trees on the side of the island. — Alie Skowronski, Miami Herald, 5 July 2026 During heavy rain, flooding is possible, especially in low-lying and flood-prone areas. — Nc Weather Bot, Charlotte Observer, 7 July 2026 Travelers along Interstate 70 have been warned to expect smoky conditions and use their headlights while entering low-lying canyon areas. — Logan Smith, CBS News, 28 June 2026 Local governments have opened emergency shelters, which have been nearing capacity, as residents in low-lying areas and those living in wood and tin homes have especially sought refuge. — Kristin Wright, NPR, 5 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for low-lying

Word History

First Known Use

1712, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of low-lying was in 1712

Rhymes for low-lying

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Browse Nearby Words

lowly
low-lying
low-maintenance
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Cite this Entry

“Low-lying.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/low-lying. Accessed 10 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

low-lying

adjective
low-ly·​ing
ˈlō-ˈlī-iŋ
: having little upward extension or elevation
low-lying clouds
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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