viaduct
VYE-uh-dukt
/ˈvaɪədʌkt/
A long bridge-like structure, typically a series of arches, carrying a road or railroad across a valley or other low ground.
Specifically refers to a bridge with many small spans rather than one giant one.
The story behind the word. Formed in the 19th century by analogy with 'aqueduct.' Engineers needed a word for a structure that 'led a way' (via) across a gap, just as Romans 'led water' (aqua).
Word relationships
- overpass: An overpass is usually a single bridge over a road; a viaduct is a long series of spans.
Commonly confused with
- aqueduct: A viaduct carries traffic (via); an aqueduct carries water (aqua).
Collocations
- railway viaduct
- concrete viaduct
- arched viaduct
Example sentences
- "The train rattled across the high viaduct, the valley floor a dizzying distance below." Literature
- "The Glenfinnan Viaduct is a masterpiece of Victorian concrete engineering." Engineering History
Memory hook
VIA = way/road. DUCT = lead. A viaduct leads the way across the valley. A bridge of many arches.
When not to use
Don't use for a simple bridge over a small stream; a viaduct is usually massive and multi-arched.
Fun facts
- The Tunkhannock Viaduct in Pennsylvania was the largest concrete structure in the world when completed in 1915.
Also appears in
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