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
1
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 notesIn 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
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Word forms
- Plural
- embankments
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".
Antonyms
Related words
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.
