abutment
n. C1 Advanced UK //ɐbˈʌtmənt// abut·ment
n. a solid structure that supports a bridge or a building. It is usually built into the ground or against a wall to hold things in place.
n. a structural support, such as a pier or a wall, that carries the load of a bridge or building and transfers it to the ground.
The bridge has two large stone abutments at each end.
Engineers inspected the abutment to ensure the new highway could withstand heavy traffic and seasonal flooding.
The stability of the entire archway depends on the abutment, which must resist the lateral thrust of the structure to prevent collapse.
First attested in 1644; engineering sense first attested in 1793. From Old French aboutement. Equivalent to abut + -ment.