noun Uncommon

embankment

ihm-BANGK-muhnt

Embankment (noun) means a raised bank of earth or stone built to hold back water, or to carry a road or railway across low ground. Example: “The river burst its banks and flooded the land beyond the embankment.”

noun

A raised bank of earth or stone built to hold back water, or to carry a road or railway across low ground.

"The river burst its banks and flooded the land beyond the embankment."

"The railway runs along a high embankment through the valley."

How to use embankment

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA built-up ridge of earth or stone, usually to hold back water or support a road or track.

Common pairings

river embankment railway embankment build an embankment

Word forms

embankments plural

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Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

The river burst its banks and flooded the land beyond the _____.

Etymology

Formed from "embank" (to enclose with a bank) plus the noun-forming suffix "-ment".

Frequently asked questions

What does “embankment” mean?

The word “embankment” means a raised bank of earth or stone built to hold back water, or to carry a road or railway across low ground. In plain terms, a built-up ridge of earth or stone, usually to hold back water or support a road or track.

How do you pronounce “embankment”?

“Embankment” is pronounced ihm-BANGK-muhnt (/ɪmˈbeɪ̯ŋkmənt/ in IPA).

How do you use “embankment” in a sentence?

Here is “embankment” used in a sentence: “The river burst its banks and flooded the land beyond the embankment.”

What part of speech is “embankment”?

“Embankment” is a noun.

Is “embankment” a common word?

“Embankment” is an uncommon word in modern English.