riprap

1 of 2

noun

rip·​rap ˈrip-ˌrap 

1

: a foundation or sustaining wall of stones or chunks of concrete thrown together without order (as in deep water)

also : a layer of this or similar material on an embankment slope to prevent erosion

2

: material used for riprap

riprap

2 of 2

verb

riprapped; riprapping; ripraps

transitive verb

1

: to form a riprap in or upon

2

: to strengthen or support with a riprap

Examples of riprap in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Noun

Since 2005, the Savage Stone Quarry has mined a mineral called Baltimore gabbro, which is used for road beds, riprap and airport runways, by blasting apart chunks of rock in a large open pit, situated between Interstate 95 and Route 1. —Christine Condon, Baltimore Sun, 5 July 2024

Shneider says damage from constant waves against shorelines also motivates homeowners to reinforce edges with riprap or even seawalls. —Christine Peterson, Outdoor Life, 20 June 2024

Verb

Crank rocks and riprap for staging bass. —Steve Price, Field & Stream, 14 Mar. 2023

Word History

Etymology

Noun

obsolete riprap sound of rapping

First Known Use

Noun

1822, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Verb

1837, in the meaning defined at sense 1