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 highwayNorman Erickson

Examples of berm 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.
An analog for the development of such an inland body of water occurred in early 2023 after rainwater from subsequent atmospheric rivers breached levees and berms to resurrect Tulare Lake (known as Pa’ashi to the Tachi Yokut Tribe). Priya Shukla, Forbes, 13 Mar. 2025 The van got stuck on a sand berm and its two occupants ran off, investigators said. Alex Wigglesworth, Los Angeles Times, 23 Feb. 2025 Build berms at the edge of root balls of new trees and shrubs to direct water to the roots. Tom MacCubbin, The Orlando Sentinel, 29 Mar. 2025 Park officials argued the new berm will be safer, descending into open park space and not into a metal fence on one side and an active playground on the other. Jesse Wright, Chicago Tribune, 31 Jan. 2025 See All Example Sentences for berm

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

Time Traveler
The first known use of berm was in 1693

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Cite this Entry

“Berm.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/berm. Accessed 4 May. 2025.

Kids Definition

berm

noun
: a shelf or path at the top or bottom of a slope
also : a mound or wall of earth

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