EMBANKMENT Meaning and
Definition
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An embankment refers to a man-made structure or a natural feature that acts as a barrier to prevent the spread or encroachment of water, usually along a river, canal, or coastline. It is typically created by piling up and compacting a large quantity of earth or stone to form a raised ridge or wall.
Embankments serve several purposes, primarily aiming to control water flow, mitigate water-related disasters such as floods, and provide stability to the surrounding land. In river or canal management, embankments are constructed to confine the water within its designated course, preventing flooding and protecting adjacent areas from becoming submerged. They are also utilized in coastal areas to safeguard land from erosion caused by strong waves and tides.
The construction process of an embankment involves carefully engineering the design to withstand the hydrological pressures it may encounter. Key components include sloping sides, known as berms, and a flat or gently sloping top, called the crest, which provides a pathway or platform.
Embankments can have various shapes and sizes, depending on their intended purpose and the characteristics of the surrounding terrain. While some embankments are minimal in height and width, focusing on basic flood prevention, others are more elaborate and extensive, featuring specialized drainage systems or reinforcement techniques to enhance their resilience.
Overall, embankments play a crucial role in managing the natural flow of water and protecting human settlements, agricultural areas, and infrastructure from water-related events, offering stability and ensuring the safety and well-being of affected regions.
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An inclosure by a mound of earth or stone; a mound of earth, or a raised structure, partly of stone, to prevent the encroachments of water; a raised mound of earth spanning a valley for a railway.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
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Other Common Misspellings for EMBANKMENT
Etymology of EMBANKMENT
The word "embankment" has its origins in the Old French word "embanc" which means "slope, hillside". This form of the word was borrowed into Middle English as "embankement". The prefix "em-" comes from the Latin prefix "in-" meaning "into" or "in", while "banc" derived from the Old Norse word "bakki" meaning "hill" or "bank". Therefore, "embankment" originally referred to a slope or hill formed by piling up earth, stones, or other materials. Over time, the term's meaning evolved to specifically refer to a raised bank or wall constructed to prevent flooding or to support a road or railway line.
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