abutment

US /əˈbʌt.mənt/
UK /əˈbʌt.mənt/
"abutment" picture
1.

a structure built to support the lateral pressure of an arch or span, e.g., at the ends of a bridge or dam

:
The bridge's main abutment was reinforced with concrete.
Engineers inspected the dam's abutment for any signs of stress.