berm

noun

ˈbərm 

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

Examples of berm in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The downhill park has hosted UCI World Cup events, so even top mountain bikers can find a challenge, but the 40-trail package also contains plenty of green-level berms and rollers (lift tickets from $45). —Graham Averill, Outside Online, 14 July 2024

Where to sit: Bring a blanket and lounge on the grass berm overlooking the outfield. —Georgann Yara, The Arizona Republic, 19 Feb. 2024

In North Sioux City, the South Dakota Department of Transportation built a berm Sunday night across Interstate 29 to stem flooding, temporarily blocking the major route. —Margery A. Beck, TIME, 25 June 2024

The South Dakota Department of Transportation built a berm Sunday night across Interstate 29 in North Sioux City, temporarily blocking it. —John Hanna, Twin Cities, 24 June 2024

Word History

Etymology

French berme, from Dutch berm strip of ground along a dike; akin to Middle English brimme brim

First Known Use

1693, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

berm

noun

ˈbərm 

: a shelf or path at the top or bottom of a slope

also : a mound or wall of earth