culvert

noun

cul·​vert ˈkəl-vərt How to pronounce culvert (audio)
1
: a transverse drain
2
: a conduit for a culvert
3
: a bridge over a culvert

Examples of culvert in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Stay informed and follow these tips from the NWS to ensure safety during heavy rainfall: Beware of swollen waterways: During heavy rain, avoid parking or walking near culverts or drainage ditches, where swift-moving water can pose a serious risk. Bay Area Weather Report, Mercury News, 14 May 2025 The truck hit a culvert, went airborne, landed and rolled over, ejecting him from the vehicle. Post-Tribune, Chicago Tribune, 27 Mar. 2025 Steering is slow, particularly coming off top dead center, a good trait in an off-roading situation, like crawling over culverts and ditches or crossing a short bridge comprised of two felled trees. Mark Ewing, Forbes.com, 15 Apr. 2025 Once that project is completed, INDOT contractor Superior Construction Co Inc. will close the road for a culvert replacement at Frog Creek through early August. Carole Carlson, Chicago Tribune, 7 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for culvert

Word History

Etymology

origin unknown

First Known Use

1773, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of culvert was in 1773

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Culvert.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/culvert. Accessed 4 Jun. 2025.

Kids Definition

culvert

noun
cul·​vert ˈkəl-vərt How to pronounce culvert (audio)
: a drain or waterway crossing under a road or railroad

More from Merriam-Webster on culvert

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!