What is the difference between a dam, a dyke and an embankment?
dam-barrier controlling flow of water: a barrier of concrete or earth that is built across a river or stream to obstruct or control the flow of water, especially in order to create a reservoir dike-embankment to prevent floods: an embankment built along the shore of a sea or lake or beside a river to hold back the water and prevent flooding embankment- confining or supporting ridge: a ridge or raised platform built of earth or stone to confine a waterway or support a road or railroad line
