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Viaduct Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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viaduct

[หˆvaษช.ษ™หŒdสŒkt ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

bridge construction

A viaduct is a long, elevated road or bridge that carries a road or railway across a valley or other low ground. Viaducts are often constructed using a series of arches or spans to support the roadway.

Synonyms

bridge, flyover, overpass.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
viaduct

Used to describe a long bridge-like structure, typically a series of arches, that carries a road or railway over valleys or other roads. Often found in architectural and engineering contexts.

  • The Roman aqueduct was an ancient form of viaduct used to transport water.
  • The train travels over a viaduct that offers stunning views of the valley below.
bridge

Used for general purposes when referring to a structure that spans obstacles such as rivers, roads, or valleys. Applicable in both everyday language and technical contexts.

  • The Golden Gate Bridge is a famous landmark in San Francisco.
  • The bridge over the river connects the two towns.
overpass

Mainly used in American English to describe a bridge that carries a road or railway over another road, railway, or obstacle. Suitable for discussions about urban infrastructure.

  • The car overturned when it went off the overpass.
  • An overpass was built to facilitate pedestrian access across the highway.
flyover

Commonly used in British English to describe a road bridge that carries one road over another. It's often found in urban planning and traffic management contexts.

  • The flyover helped reduce traffic congestion in the city center.
  • There are plans to construct a new flyover to improve access to the airport.

Examples of usage

  • The train crossed the viaduct as it made its way through the mountainous region.
  • The viaduct allowed the highway to pass over the river without disrupting traffic flow.
  • The ancient viaduct still stands as a testament to the engineering skills of the past.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Engineering

  • Viaducts are often designed with arches to distribute weight and provide stability.
  • The longest viaduct in the world is the Millau Viaduct in France, which stands 343 meters (1,125 ft) above the valley.

Transport History

  • The first major viaduct built in England was the Belper North Mill Viaduct in the 1820s.
  • Viaducts helped advance rail travel in the 19th century by allowing trains to traverse difficult terrain.

Cultural Significance

  • Viaducts are prominent in landscapes, often becoming symbols of engineering prowess in cities.
  • They have appeared in films as dramatic backdrops, showcasing both beauty and human achievement.

Modern Examples

  • The Danyangโ€“Kunshan Grand Bridge in China is a recent innovation and part of the world's longest high-speed railway.
  • California's Vincent Thomas Bridge functions as a viaduct, connecting San Pedro and Terminal Island efficiently.

Origin of 'viaduct'

Main points about word origin

  • Originates from the Latin words 'via' meaning 'way' and 'ductus' meaning 'to lead'.
  • The term has been used in English since the early 19th century to describe elevated structures for transport.

The word 'viaduct' originated in the early 19th century from the Latin words 'via' (road) and 'ductus' (conduit or channel). It was first used in reference to the elevated road or bridge structures that were being built to facilitate transportation across difficult terrain. Viaducts have played a significant role in civil engineering and continue to be essential components of transportation infrastructure.

See also: via, viable, vial.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #21,290, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.