An embankment is a word used for an artificial ridge of soil or rock built by the side of a river and designed to try to prevent the river from flooding during times of high water. It is an alternative word to dike.

The Embankment in London, England, is a stone structure. The front of it is a wall that has recently been raised to prevent flooding. Notice how the seats have had to be put on raised platforms so that people can see over the wall while seated.

An embankment is usually made with a core of soil, and faced with stone or rush mats to prevent erosion. The top is broad and often planted with grass to help stabilise it. Many are wide enough for roads to run along them.