abutment Definition
- 1a structure that supports the end of a bridge or other elevated structure and bears the weight of the roadway or other components
- 2a masonry mass supporting and receiving the thrust of part of an arch or vault
Using abutment: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "abutment" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The abutment of the bridge was reinforced with steel beams.
Example
The arch rested on two abutments.
Example
The abutment of the building was made of stone.
abutment Synonyms and Antonyms
Phrases with abutment
Example
The dentist placed the dental abutment in preparation for the crown.
abutment wall
a retaining wall that supports the lateral pressure of earth at the base of a structure
Example
The abutment wall was built to prevent soil erosion around the foundation.
Example
The abutment dam was constructed to control the flow of the river.
Origins of abutment
from Old French 'aboutement', meaning 'joint'
Summary: abutment in Brief
An 'abutment' [əˈbʌtmənt] is a structure that supports the end of a bridge or other elevated structure and bears the weight of the roadway or other components. It can also refer to a masonry mass supporting and receiving the thrust of part of an arch or vault. Phrases like 'dental abutment' and 'abutment wall' use 'abutment' to denote a tooth or implant used to support a dental prosthesis and a retaining wall that supports the lateral pressure of earth at the base of a structure, respectively.
