riprap

A worker places riprap along the riverbank to prevent erosion.

Definition

1. Noun:

   • A foundation or wall of loose stone: "riprap" refers to a layer or mound of irregularly broken stones or boulders placed to prevent erosion, protect shorelines, or stabilize slopes.
   • The stones themselves: The material (typically angular rocks) used in such a construction.

2. Verb (rare, transitive):

   • To construct or cover with riprap: To place or arrange loose stones for protective purposes.

Usage Examples

• Noun:

  • The engineers installed riprap along the riverbank to stop the current from washing away the soil. (A stone barrier used for erosion control.)
  • The riprap on the dam's base consisted of large granite boulders. (The material itself, placed as a foundation.)

• Verb:

  • The crew will riprap the embankment next week. (They will cover the slope with loose stones for protection.)

Advanced Usage

• "Riprap revetment": a specific type of erosion control structure made of riprap.

  • The coastal road was protected by a riprap revetment. (A stone layer built to absorb wave energy.)

• "Riprap apron": a flat area of riprap placed at the base of a structure to prevent scouring.

  • The bridge piers were surrounded by a riprap apron. (A stone mat to stop water from digging under the foundation.)

Variants and Related Words

• Riprapped (adj): covered or reinforced with riprap.
  • The riprapped shoreline withstood the storm. (The shore was protected by a stone layer.)

Synonyms

• Stone pitching: a similar technique of laying stones to protect slopes.
• Rock armor: a descriptive term for riprap used in coastal engineering.
• Gabion: a wire cage filled with stones, used for similar purposes (though distinct from loose riprap).

Phrasal Verbs

Related Idioms