Abutment

An **abutment** is a structure that supports the end of a bridge, arch, or dam, and which receives the thrust or weight from it. It is typically a solid mass of masonry, concrete, or other strong material. Abutments provide lateral and vertical support, transferring loads from the supported structure to the ground. They are crucial for stability and durability, ensuring that the supported structure can withstand the forces acting upon it. Furthermore, an abutment can also describe a point where two properties share a boundary or are adjacent to one another, extending the concept to a broader context of adjacency and support. Finally an abutment can refer to a specific part of a dental implant that connects to a crown.

Abutment meaning with examples

• The massive concrete **abutments** of the bridge were meticulously constructed to withstand the immense weight and traffic. They were the foundation of the entire structure.
• Engineers inspected the bridge's **abutments** for cracks and erosion to ensure the bridge's long-term safety and structural integrity and maintenance.
• The dam's **abutments**, built of reinforced concrete, anchored it securely to the canyon walls, preventing water from escaping, and were essential for dam safety.
• The boundary dispute centered on the exact location where the two properties' land **abutments** were considered.
• After the implant settled, the dentist attached a custom-made abutment to receive the new crown, completing the procedure.