embankment

noun

em·​bank·​ment im-ˈbaŋk-mənt How to pronounce embankment (audio)
Synonyms of embankmentnext
1
: a raised structure (as of earth or gravel) used especially to hold back water or to carry a roadway
2
: the action of embanking

Examples of embankment in a Sentence

the embankment is steep, so be careful walking along the ridge
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 car tumbled down an embankment into thick foliage, pictures posted on social media by Millers Creek Fire Department showed. Joe Marusak may 16, Charlotte Observer, 16 May 2026 According to the Kansas Highway Patrol, Rodriguez’s vehicle went into a ditch, hit a tree and a concrete embankment and caught on fire. Nathan Pilling, Kansas City Star, 15 May 2026 According to state police, Connecticut troopers found that the 2021 BMW 330i had struck an embankment near the state Department of Transportation weigh station and rest area entrance, causing a rollover. Justin Muszynski, Hartford Courant, 13 May 2026 Days later, her body was found near a highway embankment—marking the beginning of a series of killings that would remain unsolved more than 50 years later. Virginia Chamlee, PEOPLE, 12 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for embankment

Word History

First Known Use

1786, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of embankment was in 1786

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Embankment.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/embankment. Accessed 19 May. 2026.

Kids Definition

embankment

noun
em·​bank·​ment im-ˈbaŋk-mənt How to pronounce embankment (audio)
: a raised bank or wall to carry a roadway, prevent floods, or hold back water

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