embankment

noun

em·​bank·​ment im-ˈbaŋk-mənt 

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

Synonyms of embankment

• levee
• dam

Examples of embankment in a Sentence

the embankment is steep, so be careful walking along the ridge

Recent Examples on the Web

Delaware Task Force One, multiple fire departments, and tow companies worked for hours to strategically pull the truck up from an embankment. —Joe Brandt, CBS News, 12 June 2026

Riding mowers are not designed for wet conditions and are more likely to roll on embankments. —Megan Hughes, Better Homes & Gardens, 12 June 2026

The motorcycle then went down an embankment where Keefe was thrown from the bike, according to state police. —Justin Muszynski, Hartford Courant, 8 June 2026

Kayakers contacted law enforcement after spotting Barmettler’s vehicle down a steep embankment on South Fork Road, close to the South Fork of the Payette River, according to the Sheriff’s Office. —Sally Krutzig, Idaho Statesman, 3 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1786, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

embankment

noun

em·​bank·​ment im-ˈbaŋk-mənt 

: a raised bank or wall to carry a roadway, prevent floods, or hold back water