counterfort

noun

coun·​ter·​fort

"+ˌ-

plural -s

: a buttress built against or integral with a wall (as a retaining wall or dam) but on the back or thrust-receiving side

Word History

Etymology

partial translation of Middle French contrefort, from contre- counter- + fort strength, force, from fort, adjective, strong

Love words?

You must — there are over 200,000 words in our free online dictionary, but you are looking for one that’s only in the Merriam-Webster Unabridged Dictionary.

Start your free trial today and get unlimited access to America's largest dictionary, with:

• More than 250,000 words that aren't in our free dictionary
• Expanded definitions, etymologies, and usage notes
• Advanced search features
• Ad free!