riprap

1 of 2

noun

rip·​rap ˈrip-ˌrap How to pronounce riprap (audio)
1
: a foundation or sustaining wall of stones or chunks of concrete thrown together without order (as in deep water)
also : a layer of this or similar material on an embankment slope to prevent erosion
2
: material used for riprap

riprap

2 of 2

verb

riprapped; riprapping; ripraps

transitive verb

1
: to form a riprap in or upon
2
: to strengthen or support with a riprap

Examples of riprap in a Sentence

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.
Noun
Most of the beachfront riprap repairs have been completed, Beil said, and a construction contract for the catchment wall to be built on the landward side of the tracks has been awarded to Condon-Johnson and Associates. Phil Diehl, San Diego Union-Tribune, 30 June 2025 Shoreline riprap along road causeways is one of my favorite targets in the pre-spawn, spawn, and post-spawn periods. Kristine Fischer, Outdoor Life, 25 June 2025
Verb
Crank rocks and riprap for staging bass. Steve Price, Field & Stream, 14 Mar. 2023 See All Example Sentences for riprap

Word History

Etymology

Noun

obsolete riprap sound of rapping

First Known Use

Noun

1822, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Verb

1837, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of riprap was in 1822

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Riprap.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/riprap. Accessed 12 Jul. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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