Definition

1. Noun:
   • A masonry support that touches and directly receives thrust or pressure of an arch or bridge: A solid architectural structure, often made of stone or concrete, that provides the end support for an arch or bridge, absorbing its lateral forces.
   • Point of contact between two objects or parts: The place or surface where two things meet or are adjacent to each other.

Examples of Usage

• Noun:
  • The engineer inspected the stone abutment at the end of the bridge for cracks.
  • The abutment of the old Roman aqueduct has stood for centuries.
  • The abutment of the two tectonic plates causes significant seismic activity in the region.

Advanced Usage

• In dentistry: The term is used to describe a tooth or implant that supports a dental prosthesis, such as a bridge.
  • The crown was cemented onto the prepared abutment tooth.

Variants and Related Words

• Abut (verb): To be adjacent to; to share a common boundary with.
  • Their property abuts the national forest.
• Abutting (adjective): Being adjacent or touching.
  • The abutting wall needed repair.

Synonyms

• Support: A structure that bears the weight of something else.
• Buttress: A projecting support built against a wall.
• Pier: A vertical supporting structure, especially for a bridge.
• Juncture: A point where things join.

Related Phrases

• Abutment wall: A wall that serves as an abutment.
  • The abutment wall was reinforced with steel.

Noun

1. a masonry support that touches and directly receives thrust or pressure of an arch or bridge
2. point of contact between two objects or parts