# embankment

/ɛmˈbæŋkmənt/ (US) · /ɛmbˈæŋkmənt/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/embankment
Updated: 2026-05-08

## Definition

a thick wall of earth or stone built to hold back water or to carry a road or railway over low ground.

For teachers: a raised structure of earth, gravel, or stone, typically constructed to prevent flooding or to support a transport route across a depression.

## Examples

- The river overflowed and damaged the grassy embankment.
- Engineers built a high embankment to protect the coastal town from rising sea levels during storms.
- The railway line runs along a steep embankment, providing passengers with an elevated view of the surrounding wetlands while ensuring the tracks remain dry during the monsoon season.

## Usage notes

- Often used with the definite article when referring to a specific riverside walkway, such as the Thames Embankment.

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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.