a barrier constructed to hold back water and raise its level, forming a reservoir used to generate electricity or as a water supply., a barrier built across a river or other watercourse to hold back or divert water., a female parent of an animal, especially a domesticated mammal.

break the dam, dam up, beaver dam

Formal and Informal Expressions of dam

In different contexts, you can replace 'dam' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'barrier, embankment' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'blockade, stopper' is a commonplace synonym.

dam: Explore its Definition & Usage

dam Definition

1a barrier constructed to hold back water and raise its level, forming a reservoir used to generate electricity or as a water supply.
2a barrier built across a river or other watercourse to hold back or divert water.
3a female parent of an animal, especially a domesticated mammal.

Using dam: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "dam" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

Example
The dam was built to prevent flooding in the area.
Example
The beavers built a dam across the stream.
Example
She is the dam of several prize-winning horses.

dam Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for dam

Antonyms for dam

Phrases with dam

break the dam
to release pent-up emotions or energy
Example
After holding back her tears for so long, she finally broke the dam and cried.
dam up
to block or obstruct the flow of water
Example
The debris from the storm dammed up the river, causing it to overflow.
beaver dam
a dam constructed by beavers to provide still water for their habitat
Example
The beaver dam created a pond that attracted many different species of wildlife.

Origins of dam

Old English 'dæm', of Germanic origin; related to Dutch 'dam' and German 'Damm'.

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Summary: dam in Brief

A 'dam' [dam] is a barrier constructed to hold back water and form a reservoir, or to divert water. It can also refer to the female parent of an animal. Examples include 'The dam was built to prevent flooding in the area.' and 'She is the dam of several prize-winning horses.' Phrases include 'break the dam,' meaning to release pent-up emotions, and 'dam up,' meaning to block the flow of water.