revetment

Definition

A strong, protective wall or embankment, often made of stone or concrete, built along a coast or riverbank to prevent erosion and stabilize the ground against wave action or currents.

Etymology

Derived from the French word 'revêtement', which comes from the verb 'revêtir' meaning 'to clothe' or 'to cover'. It entered English in the mid-19th century to describe a protective facing applied to a structure or earthen bank.

In the news

The article mentions revetment walls as an engineered solution used by local governments to protect coastal property from the ongoing threat of flooding and erosion.

‘Little by little cities will have to recede’: Coastal flooding is the sleeper climate issue

Brisbane Times

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