berm

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noun \ˈbərm\

Definition of berm

1 : a narrow shelf, path, or ledge typically at the top or bottom of a slope; also : a mound or wall of earth or sand a landscaped berm
2 : the shoulder of a road deer … feeding on the berm of the highway — Norman Erickson

See berm defined for English-language learners

Recent Examples of berm from the Web

The Islamic State has fortified these areas, digging trenches and clogging streets with earthen berms in an attempt to delay Iraq’s final push.

— mustafa salim, Washington Post, "Bulldozers have become more crucial — and more vulnerable — in the fight against the Islamic State", 29 May 2017
A large berm might prevent future slides from making it onto the road.

— aarian marshall, WIRED, "California’s Daunting Plan to Clean Up the Big Sur Landslide—and Stop the Next One", 25 May 2017
This article was updated with Tara Finnigan’s statement about the sand berm and sandbags.

— bradley zint, Daily Pilot, "Demolition crew destroyed private seawall cap in Newport Beach, city says after neighborhood floods", 25 May 2017
A soldier can crouch behind a wall or berm and raise his rifle up, stealing a look without exposing himself to enemy fire.

— kyle mizokami, Popular Mechanics, "DARPA Is Working on Giving Soldiers Supervision", 25 May 2017

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'berm'. Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.