cofferdam Definition
- 1a temporary watertight enclosure that is pumped dry to enclose an area underwater and allow construction work to be carried out on a dry surface
- 2a watertight structure used for the repair of ships below the waterline
Using cofferdam: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "cofferdam" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The cofferdam was built around the bridge pier so that the workers could repair it.
Example
The ship was taken into the dry dock and placed in a cofferdam for repairs.
Example
The construction of the underwater tunnel required the use of a cofferdam.
cofferdam Synonyms and Antonyms
Phrases with cofferdam
sheet-pile cofferdam
a type of cofferdam made from interlocking steel or concrete sheet piles
Example
The sheet-pile cofferdam was used to construct the foundation of the bridge pier.
a type of cofferdam made from interconnected cells or compartments filled with sand or gravel
Example
The cellular cofferdam was used to create a dry work area for the construction of the bridge pier.
Example
The floating cofferdam was used to create a dry work area for the construction of the underwater tunnel.
Origins of cofferdam
from Middle French 'coffre', meaning 'box' + 'dam'
Summary: cofferdam in Brief
A 'cofferdam' [ˈkɒfədæm] is a temporary watertight enclosure used to enclose an area underwater and allow construction work to be carried out on a dry surface. It can also refer to a watertight structure used for the repair of ships below the waterline. Examples of cofferdams include sheet-pile, cellular, and floating cofferdams.
