~ 1
■ noun
1》 a barrier constructed to hold back water and raise its level, forming a reservoir or preventing flooding.
↘a barrier of branches in a stream, constructed by a beaver to provide a deep pool and a lodge.
2》 (also dental ~ ) a rubber sheet used to keep saliva from the teeth during dental operations, or as a prophylactic device during cunnilingus and anilingus.
■ verb ( ~med , ~ming ) build a ~ across.
↘hold back or obstruct.
Origin
ME: from Mid. Low Ger. or MDu.; related to OE fordemman 'close up'.
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~ 2
■ noun the female parent of an animal, especially a mammal.
Origin
ME: alt. of ~e .
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~ 3
■ abbreviation decametre(s).