dam 1
/dam/ , n. , v. , dammed, damming .
n.
1. a barrier to obstruct the flow of water, esp. one of earth, masonry, etc., built across a stream or river.
2. a body of water confined by a dam.
3. any barrier resembling a dam.
v.t.
4. to furnish with a dam; obstruct or confine with a dam.
5. to stop up; block up.
[ 1275-1325; ME dam; akin to OE for-demman to stop up, block ]
Syn. 5. impede, clog, check, choke.
dam 2
/dam/ , n.
a female parent (used esp. of four-footed domestic animals).
[ 1250-1300; ME; var. of DAME ]
dekameter; dekameters.