Pronunciation: [kˈʌtbaŋk] (IPA) 
The word "cutbank" can be a bit confusing when it comes to spelling. It is pronounced /ˈkʌtˌbæŋk/ and refers to the eroded bank of a river or stream. The first part, "cut," is spelled with a "c" and a "u" and pronounced with a short "u" sound. The second part, "bank," is spelled with an "a" and a "n" and pronounced with a short "a" sound. The combination of these two parts creates the unique and distinct spelling of the word "cutbank."
Cutbank (noun):
1. A steep slope or high bank formed by the erosive action of a river or stream, resulting in the removal of soil or sediment from the outer part of a meandering channel. Cutbanks are typically found on the outer bend or curve of a river or stream and are characterized by their vertical or near-vertical sides facing the water flow. They are formed as the water current erodes the bank over time, carrying away loose soil or sediment, ultimately creating a distinct elevated feature. Cutbanks are commonly seen in meandering river systems and are often marked by their exposed layers of soil or rock.
2. In geology, a cutbank refers to a landform feature that results from the erosive action of a flowing body of water, such as a river or stream. This feature appears as a steep slope or embankment created by the lateral erosion of the watercourse. Cutbanks can vary in size, from small, local topographic changes to larger formations that mark significant changes in the path of a river or stream. They may also provide important clues for studying the geological history and dynamics of a particular area or water system.
3. In a broader sense, the term "cutbank" can also refer to the process of erosion itself, wherein the water flow wears away the outer edge of a river or stream, contributing to the creation or alteration of a cutbank landform.
The word "cutbank" has its roots in the combination of two separate words, "cut" and "bank".
The term "cut" comes from the Old English word "cyttan" or "cuttian", which means "to cut or separate". Over time, it evolved to also imply the act of dividing or removing parts of something, such as cutting through soil or rocks.
The word "bank" originates from the Old English word "banc", which means "hillside" or "slope". In this context, it refers to the naturally sloping or steepened edge of a river, creek, or stream.
Therefore, the combination of these two words resulted in the term "cutbank", which refers to a steep, eroded bank or cliff formed by the cutting action of flowing water, commonly found along rivers or streams.
