dam2

 
Pronunciation: /dam/

noun

  • 1a barrier constructed to hold back water and raise its level, forming a reservoir used to generate electricity or as a water supply: the dam burst after torrential rain [in names]: the Hoover Dam
  • a barrier of branches in a stream, constructed by a beaver to provide a deep pool and a lodge.
  • chiefly South African an artificial pond or reservoir where rain or spring water is collected for storage: the dam was full of water
  • 2 (also dental dam) a rubber sheet used to keep saliva from the teeth during dental operations, or as a prophylactic device during cunnilingus and anilingus.

verb (dams, damming, dammed)

[with object]
  • build a dam across (a river or lake): the river was dammed to form Lake Powell
  • hold back or obstruct (something): the closed lock gates dammed up the canal

Origin:

Middle English: from Middle Low German or Middle Dutch; related to Dutch dam and German Damm, also to Old English fordemman 'close up'