noun
weir
WEER/wɪr/
A low dam across a river that controls water flow.
The low weir controls the river's flow through town.
Etymology
Wer named a dam or enclosure, especially one for catching fish. The modern barrier retains that enclosing function, holding back stream water to control its level and flow.
In context
Her posture was so graceful that though he was making straight for the weir, he dared not dip a skull.
More examples
- Water spills over the weir after heavy rain.
- Engineers inspect the weir for cracks each spring.
- Several weirs help maintain the river's water level.
Forms
weir · weirs