crossword clue flood barrier – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! We've compiled all the possible solutions and helpful explanations for the crossword clue "flood barrier". Find your answer quickly, no matter the length, and get back to enjoying your puzzle!
Solutions for "crossword clue flood barrier" by Letter Count
3 Letters
DAM: A barrier constructed across a waterway to obstruct, divert, or slow the flow of water, often forming a reservoir.
4 Letters
DIKE: An embankment built to prevent flooding from a river or the sea, or to form a boundary.
5 Letters
LEVEE: An embankment built to prevent the overflow of a river, particularly in low-lying areas.
7 Letters
BARRAGE: An artificial barrier across a river or estuary to prevent flooding, control water levels, or aid irrigation.
More About "crossword clue flood barrier"
The term "flood barrier" encompasses a range of engineering structures designed to mitigate the destructive power of water. From ancient river civilizations to modern coastal cities, humanity has always sought ways to control water and protect vital areas. These barriers are crucial for preventing inundation, preserving agricultural land, and safeguarding urban infrastructure.
Different types of flood barriers serve specific purposes and are built according to the local geography and the type of water body they are designed to contain. While a "dam" typically creates a reservoir and can be used for power generation or water supply in addition to flood control, a "levee" or "dike" is primarily focused on containing water within its natural channel or preventing encroachment onto dry land. "Barrages" often control water levels in rivers or estuaries, sometimes with navigable gates.
Understanding these distinctions can often help when a crossword clue for "flood barrier" has multiple potential answers. The precise wording of the clue, or the length of the required answer, will guide you to the correct solution among common terms like DIKE, DAM, LEVEE, or BARRAGE.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Letter Count First: Always match the required number of letters. This immediately narrows down the possibilities for "flood barrier" answers like DAM (3), DIKE (4), LEVEE (5), or BARRAGE (7).
- Look for Contextual Clues: Sometimes the clue will hint at the type of barrier. For example, "river bank fortification" might lean towards LEVEE, while "sea wall" could suggest DIKE.
- Check Intersecting Words: The letters of intersecting words are your best friends. If an intersecting word dictates that the third letter of your "flood barrier" answer must be 'M', then 'DAM' becomes a very strong candidate.
- Think Beyond the Obvious: While common terms like 'DAM' or 'DIKE' are frequent, crosswords can sometimes use less common synonyms or more specific engineering terms. Always keep an open mind.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary purpose of a flood barrier?
The primary purpose of a flood barrier is to protect land, infrastructure, and human settlements from inundation by water, typically from rivers, lakes, or the sea, during periods of high water levels or storms.
How do I choose the correct 'flood barrier' answer in a crossword puzzle?
To choose the correct answer, first check the number of letters required. Then, consider any intersecting words that might provide additional clues. Sometimes, the clue's nuance (e.g., 'river barrier' vs. 'sea barrier') can point to a specific term like 'levee' or 'dike'.
Are 'dike' and 'levee' the same thing?
While often used interchangeably, there's a subtle difference. A 'levee' is typically a natural or artificial embankment alongside a river to prevent flooding. A 'dike' (or dyke) is a broader term that can include levees but also refers to barriers built along coastlines or to reclaim land from the sea.