n. & v.
--n.
1. a the border of the land near the sea; the seashore. b (the Coast) US the Pacific coast of the US.
2 a a run, usu. downhill, on a bicycle without pedalling or in a motor vehicle without using the engine. b US a toboggan slide or slope.
--v.intr.
1. ride or move, usu. downhill, without use of power, free-wheel.
2 make progress without much effort.
3 US slide down a hill on a toboggan.
4 a sail along the coast. b trade between ports on the same coast.
Phrases and idioms:
the coast is clear there is no danger of being observed or caught. coast-to-coast across an island or continent.
Derivatives:
coastal adj.
Etymology: ME f. OF coste, costeier f. L costa rib, flank, side