Embankment (earthworks)
WALL OR BANK TO CARRY A ROAD OR RAIL OVER LOW GROUND OR WATER'S EDGE
Embankment (transportation)
A road, railway line, or canal is normally raised onto an embankment made of compacted soil (typically clay or rock-based) to avoid a change in level required by the terrain, the alternatives being either to have an unacceptable change in level or detour to follow a contour. A cutting is used for the same purpose where the land is originally higher than required.