Abutment Definition and Pronunciation

English Classroom

Overview Meaning Pronunciation Usage Practice

abutment

/əˈbʌtmənt/
noun engineering term

Definition:A structure built to support the lateral pressure of an arch or span

Origin:From Middle English, from Old French aboutement

📚 Core Meanings

Architecture

The supporting structure at either end of an arch or bridge

The abutment bears the weight of the bridge.
The abutment supports the arch structure.
Construction

Dentistry

A tooth or implant that supports a dental prosthesis

The dental crown is attached to the abutment.
The implant abutment connects to the artificial tooth.
Medical

Engineering

The point where two structures meet and support each other

The abutment joins the bridge to the embankment.
Proper abutment design prevents structural failure.
Civil Engineering

"Abutment" is a technical term primarily used in architecture, dentistry and civil engineering. While not common in everyday conversation, it's essential in these professional fields.

🔄 Usage Comparison

English Examples

The bridge abutment needs reinforcement.

Dental abutments are typically made of titanium.

This abutment design prevents water seepage.

Definitions

The structure supporting the bridge requires strengthening.

Tooth supports for dental prostheses are usually titanium.

This support structure design prevents water infiltration.

🔊 Pronunciation Guide

British Pronunciation

/əˈbʌtmənt/

uh-BUT-muhnt (stress on "BUT")

American Pronunciation

/əˈbʌtmənt/

uh-BUT-muhnt (stress on "BUT")

Pronunciation Tips:

Common Mistakes

  • Pronouncing as "a-BUHT-ment" (should be /əˈbʌtmənt/)
  • Putting stress on the first syllable
  • Omitting the "t" sound

🎯 Common Collocations

Bridge + abutment

Structural engineering context

bridge abutment
The abutment supports the bridge deck
Construction

Dental + abutment

Prosthodontics context

dental abutment
The abutment connects to the implant
Dentistry

Abutment + wall

Architectural context

abutment wall
The retaining wall functions as an abutment
Architecture

Grammar Notes

Singular: abutment
Plural: abutments

⚠️ Common Confusions

Don't Confuse:

An abutment is the same as a pier. (Incorrect)

Correct:An abutment differs from a pier in its position and function.

All abutments are made of concrete. (Incorrect)

Correct:Abutments can be made of various materials including stone, steel or titanium.

✍️ Practice Exercises

Translation Practice

1. The bridge abutment requires inspection.
2. This dental abutment is custom-made.
3. Engineers are reinforcing the abutments.

1. The support structure of the bridge needs examination.

2. This tooth support for the prosthesis is specially fabricated.

3. Technicians are strengthening the support structures.

Pronunciation Practice

Repeat these sentences:

• The abutment supports the arch. [əˈbʌtmənt]
• Dental abutments are precision components. [əˈbʌtmənts]
• This abutment design prevents erosion. [əˈbʌtmənt]

Correction Exercise

Identify and correct errors:

1. Abutments are only used in dentistry.
2. Pronounced [ˈæbʌtmɛnt]
3. The abutment is the same as a column.

1. Abutments are used in both dentistry and construction.

2. Pronounced [əˈbʌtmənt] (stress on second syllable)

3. An abutment differs from a column in function.