CULVERT Meaning and
Definition
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A culvert is a man-made channel or conduit designed to facilitate the flow of water under a road, railway, or similar obstruction. It typically consists of a tunnel-like structure made from pipes, concrete, or other materials, and is specifically constructed to redirect water away from the obstruction it crosses. Culverts are widely used in civil engineering to ensure the integrity and functionality of transportation infrastructure by allowing water to pass through it without causing damage or obstructing the passage.
The main purpose of culverts is to prevent flooding by efficiently moving water from one side of the obstruction to another, thus reducing the risk of erosion or structural damage. They are built to handle various water flow rates, from small streams to large rivers, and can vary in size depending on the volume of water they are expected to carry. Culverts are especially useful in areas prone to heavy rain or snowmelt, where a reliable drainage system is crucial to maintain the safety and usability of roads, railways, and other critical infrastructure.
In addition to diverting water, culverts also function as a passage for animals to cross under roads and railways, contributing to ecological connectivity and the preservation of wildlife habitats. They are often designed with features that mimic natural watercourses, such as smooth inner walls or rough surfaces to facilitate aquatic organism migration. Overall, culverts play a vital role in civil engineering and environmental management, providing an effective solution for managing water flow and maintaining the integrity of transportation networks.
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A passage or arched way under a road or canal.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
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Etymology of CULVERT
The word "culvert" is derived from the Old French word "coulevert", which can be traced back to the Latin term "collyrta". It referred to a pipe or a channel used for conducting water. The Latin word was formed by combining "colligere" (to bring together) and "vertere" (to turn), which gives the sense of "turning or diverting water in one place". Over time, the word "culvert" came to specifically denote a structure or pipe that allows water to flow underneath a road, railroad, or similar obstruction.
Similar spelling words for CULVERT
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