1. structures that support the ends of a bridge or arch
Usage: engineering; architecture
2. the act or state of touching or being adjacent to something
Usage: formal

Examples

• The bridge’s stone abutments were built to withstand heavy loads.
• Engineers inspected the concrete abutments for signs of wear.
• The old railway bridge had massive brick abutments on both sides.
• The abutment of the two properties caused a boundary dispute.
• Workers reinforced the bridge abutments before reopening the road.
• The abutments were designed to distribute the bridge’s weight evenly.