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 watercourse to impound or divert water.

break the dam, dam up, burst its banks/dam

Formal and Informal Expressions of dams

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

dams: Explore its Definition & Usage

dams 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 watercourse to impound or divert water.

Using dams: Examples

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

Example
The Hoover Dam is a concrete arch-gravity dam in the Black Canyon of the Colorado River.
Example
The river was dammed to create a reservoir.
Example
The beavers built a dam across the stream to create a pond.

dams Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for dams

Phrases with dams

break the dam
to release a large amount of something that has been held back
Example
The company broke the dam on new product releases this year.
dam up
to block or obstruct the flow of water
Example
The debris from the storm dammed up the river, causing it to flood.
burst its banks/dam
when a river or lake overflows its banks or dam
Example
The river burst its banks after heavy rains, causing widespread flooding.

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Summary: dams in Brief

'Dams' [damz] are barriers constructed to hold back water and form a reservoir for electricity generation or water supply. They can also be built across a watercourse to impound or divert water. Examples include the Hoover Dam and beaver dams. Phrases like 'break the dam' and 'dam up' describe releasing or blocking water flow, while 'burst its banks/dam' refers to overflowing.