noun Uncommon

weir

weer

Weir (noun) means a low dam built across a river or stream to control the water level or the rate of flow. Example: “The old mill still gets its power from the weir just below the bridge.”

noun

A low dam built across a river or stream to control the water level or the rate of flow.

"The old mill still gets its power from the weir just below the bridge."

"Salmon leap over the weir on their way upstream to spawn."

A fence or barrier set across a river to trap fish.

"Ancient fishing weirs made of woven branches have been found along the riverbank."

How to use weir

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA small barrier built across a river, usually to control the water level or to catch fish.

Common mistake

Don't confuse with "we're" (we are) or "were" (past tense of "be") — they sound identical.

Easily confused with

were → we're →

Common pairings

a weir on the river water flows over the weir salmon weir

Word forms

weirs plural, Weirs plural

Study it as flashcards or scroll it in Flow — saved to your collection.

Test yourself on “weir” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage →

Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

The old mill still gets its power from the _____ just below the bridge.

Etymology

From Old English wer, related to a verb meaning "to dam up" — the same root that gives us "warranty."

Origin: Old English

Rhymes for weir

heir Meir their

See all rhymes for weir →

Frequently asked questions

What does “weir” mean?

The word “weir” means a low dam built across a river or stream to control the water level or the rate of flow. In plain terms, a small barrier built across a river, usually to control the water level or to catch fish.

How do you pronounce “weir”?

“Weir” is pronounced weer (/wɪɹ/ in IPA).

How do you use “weir” in a sentence?

Here is “weir” used in a sentence: “The old mill still gets its power from the weir just below the bridge.”

What part of speech is “weir”?

“Weir” is a noun.

Where does the word “weir” come from?

The word “weir” comes from Old English. From Old English wer, related to a verb meaning "to dam up" — the same root that gives us "warranty.".

Is “weir” a common word?

“Weir” is an uncommon word in modern English.

How many meanings does “weir” have?

“Weir” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a low dam built across a river or stream to control the water level or the rate of flow.