embankment

noun

em·​bank·​ment im-ˈbaŋk-mənt How to pronounce embankment (audio)
1
: a raised structure (as of earth or gravel) used especially to hold back water or to carry a roadway
2
: the action of embanking

Examples of embankment in a Sentence

the embankment is steep, so be careful walking along the ridge
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.
Footage showed the mangled wreckage on an embankment on the side of the highway. Anthony Solorzano, Los Angeles Times, 7 Apr. 2025 Beltram’s truck hit their car, sending it down an embankment, crushing the passenger side compartment of the car, according to the District Attorney’s Office. Rosalio Ahumada, Sacbee.com, 3 Apr. 2025 An initial investigation revealed that the vehicle allegedly struck a metal beam guardrail, hit a directional sign in the shoulder then went off the roadway and down an embankment, according to state police. Staff Report, Hartford Courant, 25 Mar. 2025 Investigators said the bus then went partially up the embankment off the highway near milepost 2 and rolled onto its left side. Lauren Penington, The Denver Post, 13 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for embankment

Word History

First Known Use

1786, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of embankment was in 1786

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Cite this Entry

“Embankment.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/embankment. Accessed 21 Apr. 2025.

Kids Definition

embankment

noun
em·​bank·​ment im-ˈbaŋk-mənt How to pronounce embankment (audio)
: a raised bank or wall to carry a roadway, prevent floods, or hold back water

More from Merriam-Webster on embankment

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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