Entry Word: dam

Function: noun

Meaning: a bank of earth constructed to control water <the river backed up behind the dam until it formed a new lake>

Synonyms dike, embankment, levee

Related Words breakwater, jetty, seawall; breastwork, bulwark, earthwork, rampart; canal, channel, ditch, gutter, trough; lock; barricade, barrier, block; floodgate, sluice