groin
Plural
groins
1
a structure of stone, concrete, or timber extending from a shore into the water to prevent erosion and retain sand
A groin is a structure built out from a shoreline into the water to control erosion and sand movement along the beach. Typically made of wood, stone, or concrete, groins are designed to interrupt the flow of water and trap sand, helping to create and maintain a beach. By slowing down currents and waves, groins prevent the loss of sand and protect the coastline from erosion. They are commonly used in coastal engineering to stabilize shorelines and improve recreational areas, making them essential for preserving beaches and coastal habitats.
- The engineers built a groin to protect the beach from washing away.
- Waves crashed against the groin, slowing coastal erosion.
- The harbor was lined with groins to stabilize the shoreline.
- Sand accumulated on one side of the groin.
- Groins are often spaced at regular intervals along the beach.
2
the place where the legs join the front part of the body, including the region of the sex organs
The groin is the area of the human body located between the abdomen and the thigh on either side. It encompasses the region where the torso meets the legs and contains various structures, including muscles, blood vessels, lymph nodes, and nerves. The groin plays a crucial role in movement, stability, and flexibility of the lower body, and it is also a common site for hernias and lymph node swelling. Understanding the anatomy and function of the groin is important for diagnosing and managing conditions affecting this area and for maintaining overall musculoskeletal health.
- He felt a sharp pain in his groin after pulling a muscle while lifting weights at the gym.
- The soccer player collided with another player, resulting in a painful injury to his groin.
- The doctor examined the patient's groin area for signs of swelling or inflammation.
- She applied a cold compress to her groin to alleviate the discomfort caused by a strained muscle.
- The boxer wore protective padding around his groin during the match to minimize the risk of injury.
Synonyms:
3
a curved edge or junction formed where two vaults intersect
A groin is the line or edge formed where two vaulted ceilings meet at right angles. This structure is commonly found in groin vaults, creating a cross-like shape on the ceiling. The groins act as the seams of the vault, helping to distribute the weight of the ceiling evenly across the structure. This design is often used in Roman and Gothic architecture, allowing for open and spacious interiors while providing strong support to the ceiling and walls. The groin structure adds both strength and a decorative element to the ceiling.
- The cathedral features a ribbed groin at each vault intersection.
- The stone masons carefully carved the groins of the ceiling.
- Light filtered through the groin vaults into the nave.
- Gothic cathedrals often showcase elaborate groins.
- The engineer examined the stress along the groins of the arch.