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
1
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."
2
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 notesIn 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.
Common pairings
a weir on the river
water flows over the weir
salmon weir
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Word forms
- Plural
- weirs
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."
Rhymes for weir
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.
