# abutment

/ɐbˈʌtmənt/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/abutment
Updated: 2026-05-18

## Definition

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.

For teachers: 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.

## Examples

- 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.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.