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embankment

noun

em·​bank·​ment im-ˈbaŋk-mənt How to pronounce embankment (audio)
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.
Deputies located her body about 75 feet down an embankment in the area of Highway 138 and Crestline Road in Crestline. Austin Turner, CBS News, 1 Dec. 2025 Today’s handover of 20,000 polysacks—used to reinforce embankments & slow floodwaters—to the Government of Sri Lanka builds on our recent handover of communication equipment & reflects our ongoing commitment during this challenging time. Mandy Taheri, MSNBC Newsweek, 29 Nov. 2025 Dakin went off the side of the road, overcorrected and overturned while traveling off the left side of the roadway, hitting an embankment. Gillian Stawiszynski, Cincinnati Enquirer, 28 Nov. 2025 The usual Mindil Beach Sunset Market buzzed with over 150 colorful craft and food stalls on an embankment across from the Timor Sea. Norma Meyer, Oc Register, 26 Nov. 2025 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 3 Dec. 2025.

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

More from Merriam-Webster on embankment

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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