The spelling of the word "Batardeau" may seem perplexing at first glance, but with the help of IPA phonetic transcription, it becomes clear. The word is pronounced as /bætɑːdəʊ/, with emphasis on the first syllable. The spelling reflects its French origins, where "batardeau" means a temporary dam or cofferdam. Despite being an uncommon term, its spelling follows typical French patterns, with its "eau" pronunciation and use of the silent "d".
The term "Batardeau" refers to a hydraulic engineering structure or barrier that is used to control or regulate the flow of water in a canal, river, or other watercourse. The word originates from the French language, with "Batardeau" being derived from the combination of "batarde" (meaning "bastard" or "illegitimate") and "eau" (meaning "water").
A Batardeau typically consists of a temporary or semi-permanent dam, constructed using various materials such as wood, concrete, or steel. It is designed to impede or divert the flow of water for various purposes, such as flood prevention, irrigation, or for creating a dry working area in the watercourse. Batardeaus are commonly used in civil engineering projects, particularly during construction works that require water diversion or containment.
The construction of a Batardeau involves careful planning and engineering techniques to ensure its stability and effectiveness. It may involve the use of pumps or gates to control the water levels upstream and downstream of the barrier. The main objective of a Batardeau is to create a temporary obstruction that allows maintenance or construction work to be carried out efficiently and safely.
Due to its temporary nature, a Batardeau is often dismantled or removed once the specific purpose of its construction is fulfilled. However, in some cases, a Batardeau may be designed to be semi-permanent or modified to serve multiple purposes in the long term.
In mil., a strong wall of masonry built across a ditch to sustain the pressure of the water, containing a sluice-gate, armed at the top with iron pikes, and rendered impassable by a tower with a conical top, raised in the middle.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "Batardeau" is derived from the French language. Its etymology traces back to two words: "batard" and "eau".
The term "batard" in French means "bastard" or "illegitimate". In the context of water management and engineering, a "batard" referred to a temporary or makeshift construction in contrast to a permanent structure. It was often used to describe a temporary dam or barrier built across a river or waterway to divert or control the flow of water.
The word "eau" simply means "water" in French.
When combined, "batard" and "eau" form the word "Batardeau", which refers to a temporary dam or barrier constructed to manage water flow. The term is commonly used in fields such as hydraulics, hydro-engineering, and water management.