hydroelectric dam — A barrier constructed to hold back water and create a reservoir that powers turbines to generate electricity
Part of speech: NOUN
Definition: A barrier constructed to hold back water and create a reservoir that powers turbines to generate electricity
Pronunciation (IPA): /ˌhaɪdroʊɪˈlektrɪk dæm/
Example Sentences
- The new hydroelectric dam will power half the city, but the fish are probably writing complaint letters about their blocked migration route.
- China's Three Gorges Dam is the world's largest hydroelectric dam by installed capacity.
- The hydroelectric dam not only generates clean energy but also provides flood control and water storage for the region.
hydroelectric dam
NOUN[/ˌhaɪdroʊɪˈlektrɪk dæm/]
A barrier constructed to hold back water and create a reservoir that powers turbines to generate electricity

The massive hydroelectric dam turns rushing river water into electricity for the entire valley.

The eccentric genius makes the dam electric!
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
The term combines Greek hydro (water), Latin electricus (relating to amber or electricity), and Middle Dutch dam (dike or embankment). Together, these elements form a compound meaning a barrier structure that harnesses flowing water to generate electrical power.
Breakdown
hydro- (Greek, water) + electric (Latin electricus, relating to electricity) + dam (Middle Dutch dam, embankment or barrier).
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“The new hydroelectric dam will power half the city, but the fish are probably writing complaint letters about their blocked migration route.”
“China's Three Gorges Dam is the world's largest hydroelectric dam by installed capacity.”
“The hydroelectric dam not only generates clean energy but also provides flood control and water storage for the region.”
“Environmental groups argue that the proposed hydroelectric dam would disrupt the ecosystem, while engineers insist it's the best solution since sliced bread.”
📚Related Words
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