retaining wall

American  

noun

1. a wall for holding in place a mass of earth or the like, as at the edge of a terrace or excavation.

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retaining wall British  

noun

1. Also called: revetment.  a wall constructed to hold back earth, loose rock, etc

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Etymology

Origin of retaining wall

First recorded in 1830–40

Example Sentences

His building wasn’t noticeably damaged from the landslide, its retaining wall in the bluff still intact, he said.

From Los Angeles Times

The roof and east wall of the building collapsed, and the remaining retaining walls could soon follow, SFD said.

From Seattle Times

Martinez Sandoval said workers dug out the front, but refused to clean much of the back, saying disturbing soil there could imperil the retaining wall and foundation of another house uphill.

From Los Angeles Times

The Western Wall, a retaining wall outside the al-Aqsa compound, has long been venerated as a focal point for Jewish prayer.

From Washington Post

Veikoso, 22, died Friday after a retaining wall he was helping repair during holiday break from school collapsed, his family confirmed.

From Seattle Times