Culvert Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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culvert
[ˈkʌlvərt ]
Definition
drainage structure
A culvert is a structure that allows water to flow under a road, railroad, trail, or similar obstruction. They are typically used to manage water flow in order to prevent flooding and erosion. Culverts can be made from various materials, including concrete, metal, or plastic. Proper design and maintenance of culverts are critical to ensure water flows efficiently and to minimize the impact on surrounding ecosystems.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The heavy rain caused the culvert to overflow.
- They installed a new culvert to improve drainage.
- The road was closed due to a damaged culvert.
- Culverts are essential for protecting the infrastructure.
Translations
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Origin of 'culvert'
The word 'culvert' originates from the Latin word 'culvertus', which in turn comes from 'culvertus' meaning 'a pipe'. The term has evolved over time and began to be used in English during the Middle Ages. Initially, culverts were simple drainage channels, but as engineering advanced, the design of culverts became more sophisticated, accommodating various sizes and types of water flow. The 19th century saw significant improvements in materials and construction techniques, leading to the widespread use of culverts in modern infrastructure. Today, culverts play a vital role in managing water runoff, aiding in road construction and maintenance, and contributing to ecological sustainability.