earthwork

noun

earth·​work ˈərth-ˌwərk How to pronounce earthwork (audio)
Synonyms of earthworknext
1
: an embankment or other construction made of earth
especially : one used as a field fortification
2
: the operations connected with excavations and embankments of earth
3
: a work of art consisting of a portion of land modified by an artist

Examples of earthwork in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
It's thought that people would have celebrated the solstice at the site around the same time as the very first earthworks were built at Stonehenge. — Adam England, PEOPLE, 18 June 2026 This is around the same time that the first earthworks at Stonehenge were built, while the famous stones weren’t put in place until 500 years later. — Jack Guy, CNN Money, 18 June 2026 Near the bluff-top Gregory House, river views and Civil War earthworks add a layer of living history to the climb. — Carrie Honaker, Travel + Leisure, 2 Mar. 2026 The famous earthworks artist, with help from his team and volunteers, unveiled the piece to Lawrence and the Algerian community on Saturday to a crowd of over 800. — Sophie Lindberg, Kansas City Star, 17 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for earthwork

Word History

First Known Use

1633, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of earthwork was in 1633

Rhymes for earthwork

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Browse Nearby Words

earth wolf
earthwork
earthworm
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Cite this Entry

“Earthwork.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/earthwork. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

earthwork

noun
earth·​work -ˌwərk How to pronounce earthwork (audio)
: something (as a raised bank or wall) constructed out of earth especially for protection

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