Synonyms for

Dams

Verb / dæmz / Another word for dams — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

Dams are barriers that are built across a river to stop or control the flow of water.

Synonyms & similar words

decameter dike dam decametre dekametre dkm damup dekameter dyke barrier embankment wall blockade barricade weir levee jetty damming obstruction block hindrance impediment curb restraint constraint check stoppage blockage jam

Synonyms by register

Formal

barrages weirs reservoirs embankments

Informal

barriers walls stops

Literary

sluices weirs

Antonyms

rivers streams channels waterways brooks creeks

Common collocations

  • build dams
  • large dams
  • concrete dams
  • hydroelectric dams
  • water dams
  • dam safety
  • dam construction
  • dam failure

Word family

noun dam
verb dam

Usage note

The word 'dam' can be used as a mild expletive, but this usage is informal and can be considered vulgar. As a noun, it refers to a barrier constructed to hold back water.

Example sentences

  1. Dams help to control floods.
  2. The beavers built a dam to make a pond.
  3. Building a dam can be very expensive.
  4. The dam holds back a large amount of water.
  5. We can fish in the river below the dam.

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