A breakwater is a man-made structure built offshore, typically parallel to the shoreline, to protect a coast, harbor, or anchorage from the force of incoming waves. By intercepting and reducing wave energy, breakwaters create calmer waters on the shoreward side, making it safer for vessels and reducing erosion along the coast. Breakwaters can be constructed from various materials, such as rocks, concrete, or large stones, and may be submerged or extend above water level.