gravity dam: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C2 (Very Low Frequency - Technical/Specialist)Technical/Engineering, Academic, Formal
Quick answer
What does “gravity dam” mean?
A dam constructed from concrete or masonry that relies on its own weight and resistance to sliding to resist the horizontal pressure of water.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A dam constructed from concrete or masonry that relies on its own weight and resistance to sliding to resist the horizontal pressure of water.
In engineering contexts, it refers to a massive, durable structure designed for water retention, flood control, irrigation, or hydroelectric power generation. Figuratively, it can symbolize a robust, unyielding barrier or foundational support.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant lexical differences. The term is technically identical. Minor differences may exist in associated regional engineering standards or typical construction materials.
Connotations
Neutral technical term in both varieties.
Frequency
Equally low frequency in both, confined to civil engineering, hydrology, and related technical fields.
Grammar
How to Use “gravity dam” in a Sentence
[The/This] gravity dam + [verbs: holds back, retains, withstands, resists] + [water/pressure].[Engineers] + [verbs: designed, built, assessed, reinforced] + [the/this] gravity dam.Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “gravity dam” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- gravity-dam construction
- gravity-dam technology
American English
- gravity-dam design
- gravity-dam engineering
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare. May appear in project proposals, feasibility studies, or cost reports for infrastructure development.
Academic
Common in civil engineering, environmental science, and hydrology textbooks, journals, and research papers.
Everyday
Extremely rare. A layperson might simply say 'concrete dam' or just 'dam'.
Technical
The primary register. Used precisely to discuss structural design, load calculations, seismic resilience, and hydrological impact.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “gravity dam”
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “gravity dam”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “gravity dam”
- Confusing it with other dam types (e.g., using 'gravity dam' for an 'arch dam').
- Misspelling as 'gravitational dam'.
- Using in non-technical contexts where 'dam' suffices.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, while modern ones often are, traditional gravity dams were built from stone masonry. The key is the mass and weight of the material, not its composition.
Its inherent stability and durability due to simple design principles, making it suitable for a wide range of foundations where the bedrock is strong.
The Hoover Dam in the USA is a classic example of a massive concrete gravity-arch dam, combining both principles.
Generally, no. Their immense weight requires a very solid foundation, typically strong rock, to prevent settling or sliding.
A dam constructed from concrete or masonry that relies on its own weight and resistance to sliding to resist the horizontal pressure of water.
Gravity dam is usually technical/engineering, academic, formal in register.
Gravity dam: in British English it is pronounced /ˈɡræv.ə.ti ˌdæm/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈɡræv.ə.t̬i ˌdæm/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of GRAVITY holding the dam down, like a sumo wrestler (the dam) sitting firmly to block a stream of water.
Conceptual Metaphor
FOUNDATION IS MASS / STABILITY IS WEIGHT. The concept maps the abstract principle of stability onto the physical property of weight resisting force.
Practice
Quiz
What is the defining structural principle of a gravity dam?