earthwork

noun

earth·​work ˈərth-ˌwərk 

1

: an embankment or other construction made of earth

especially : one used as a field fortification

2

: the operations connected with excavations and embankments of earth

3

: a work of art consisting of a portion of land modified by an artist

Examples of earthwork in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Known primarily for his monumental earthworks, Heizer’s glass works are rare and reflect his ongoing engagement with scale, space, and material. —Nel-Olivia Waga, Forbes.com, 20 June 2025

The historic site was a Civil War earthwork fort that was built by Black Union soldiers. —Charna Flam, People.com, 29 May 2025

Serpent Mound Park, Ohio The Serpent Mound is a 1,348-foot prehistoric earthwork that follows the shape of a winding serpent while its head aligns with the sunset on the summer solstice. —Emese MacZko, Forbes.com, 6 June 2025

Formerly known as El Chupacabra Ranch, a nod to Baggett’s nickname during his racing career, Blake Ridge is set to contain 216 single-family lots, with earthwork expected to begin in September. —James Wilkins, The Orlando Sentinel, 25 May 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1633, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for earthwork

• artwork
• beadwork
• berserk
• breastwork
• brickwork
• brushwork
• casework
• classwork
• clockwork
• coursework
• ductwork
• falsework

Kids Definition

earthwork

noun

earth·​work -ˌwərk 

: something (as a raised bank or wall) constructed out of earth especially for protection