culvert

noun

cul·​vert ˈkəl-vərt How to pronounce culvert (audio)
1
: a transverse drain
2
: a conduit for a culvert
3
: a bridge over a culvert

Examples of culvert 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.
The work will involve installing a drainage structure, called a box culvert, underneath the highway, as part of plans to build an interchange at Idaho 16 and State, according to the release. Rose Evans november 4, Idaho Statesman, 4 Nov. 2025 In heavy rain, refrain from parking or walking near culverts or drainage ditches, where swift-moving water can pose a grave danger. Bay Area Weather Report, Mercury News, 22 Oct. 2025 During heavy rain, avoid parking or walking near culverts or drainage ditches, where swift-moving water can pose a serious risk. Southern California Weather Report, Oc Register, 14 Oct. 2025 The pickup veered off the road, struck a concrete culvert and went airborne before landing in the ditch, according to police. Noe Padilla, IndyStar, 2 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for culvert

Word History

Etymology

origin unknown

First Known Use

1774, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of culvert was in 1774

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Culvert.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/culvert. Accessed 18 Nov. 2025.

Kids Definition

culvert

noun
cul·​vert ˈkəl-vərt How to pronounce culvert (audio)
: a drain or waterway crossing under a road or railroad

More from Merriam-Webster on culvert

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