What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
embankment
Example
The river embankment was reinforced with concrete to prevent flooding. [embankment: noun]
Example
The train tracks run along the embankment, providing a scenic view of the city. [embankment: noun]
levee
Example
The levee protected the town from the floodwaters of the river. [levee: noun]
Example
The farmer built a levee to divert water to his crops. [levee: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Embankment is more commonly used than levee in everyday language, as it has a wider range of applications beyond flood control. However, levee is still an important term in the field of civil engineering and flood control.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between embankment and levee?
Both embankment and levee are technical terms used in the field of civil engineering, and are therefore more formal in nature. However, levee may also be used in a social context to refer to a reception or gathering hosted by a person of honor.
