Definition

The pointed front part of a bridge pier or the front of a ship that helps to split water or ice.

Example

The cutwater of the bridge was designed to withstand strong currents and ice flows.

Conversation

Have you ever seen the cutwater on that old bridge downtown?

Yeah, it’s pretty interesting how it helps with the flow of water.

I didn’t realize it was designed to break up ice floes too!

Exactly! It’s amazing how engineering works to tackle nature.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Cutwater is formed from "cut" (from Old English "cuttan", meaning to sever or divide) and "water" (from Old English "wæter", meaning water). The term refers to the part of a ship's bow that cuts through the water, facilitating movement.

Memory Tip

Think of the action of 'severing' or 'dividing' the water as the ship moves forward — that's why 'cutwater' describes the part of the ship that cuts through the water.

Visually Confused Words