levee

/liːv/ /liːvɪ/

Definitions

1. noun

A natural or artificial barrier of earth, stone, or other material, built across a river or lake to prevent flooding, control the water level, or provide a safe passage.

“The city’s residents were worried about the impending flood, so they built a levee to protect their homes.”

2. noun

A raised area of ground, such as a mound of earth, used as a bank or a fortification.

“The ancient civilization built a levee to defend their city from invaders.”

3. noun

A raised area of ground, such as a mound of earth, used as a bank or a dike, especially in a golf course or a sports field.

“The golf course had a levee to separate the playing area from the surrounding woods.”

4. verb

To raise or build a levee, especially to prevent flooding.

“The residents of the town were forced to levee the river to protect their homes.”

Synonyms

  • bank
  • dam
  • dyke

Antonyms

  • floodgate