abutment

Definition

The point of junction between two things, in particular a support, that abuts.

Etymology

First attested in 1644; engineering sense first attested in 1793. From Old French aboutement. Equivalent to abut + -ment.

Example Sentences

• "Each of the bridges consists of six separate girder spans on brick abutments."
• "Heavy rains have caused the dam's abutments to seep, raising concern over possible dam failure."
• "The fulcrum acted as an abutment."