culvert

[ kuhl-vert ]

noun

1. a drain or channel crossing under a road, sidewalk, etc.; sewer; conduit.

culvert

/ ˈkʌlvət /

noun

1. a drain or covered channel that crosses under a road, railway, etc
2. a channel for an electric cable
3. a tunnel through which water is pumped into or out of a dry dock

Word History and Origins

Origin of culvert¹

First recorded in 1765–75; origin uncertain

Word History and Origins

Origin of culvert¹

C18: of unknown origin

Example Sentences

Some aid may continue to be available through other federal agencies such as the Department of Transportation, which could help with rebuilding highways, putting up road barriers and cleaning culverts, Garamendi said.

From Los Angeles Times

In May 2015, one pipeline ruptured and gushed oil into a culvert under Highway 101 and eventually discharged into the Pacific Ocean.

From Los Angeles Times

More than a month after the evacuation order was lifted, the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency acknowledged that multiple buildings in East Palestine were being contaminated as contractors cleaned contaminated culverts under and alongside buildings.

From Salon

The court heard it was raining at the time of the crash but there had been heavy downpours overnight, causing a culvert to block on the road.

From BBC

Excess erosion has also clogged countless culverts, blocked roadways and buried infrastructure, increasing flood and safety concerns.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• duct
• gutter
• pipe