Caisson

/ˈkeɪ.sən/ · noun

Meaning

(engineering) A (permanent) enclosure from which water can be expelled, in order to give access to underwater areas for engineering works etc..

Definitions by Sense

1. (engineering) A (permanent) enclosure from which water can be expelled, in order to give access to underwater areas for engineering works etc.
2. (engineering) A structure with similar function that is temporary.
3. (architecture) A coffer (sunken panel).
4. The gate across the entrance to a drydock.
5. (nautical) A floating tank that can be submerged, attached to an underwater object and then pumped out to lift the object by buoyancy.
6. (military) A two-wheeled, horse-drawn military vehicle used to carry ammunition (and a coffin at funerals).
7. (military) A large box to hold ammunition.
8. (military) A chest filled with explosive materials, used like a mine.

Example Sentences

During the construction of the viaduct, the sinking of the caissons in the river bed caused much difficulty to the engineer and contractors, as a bed of running sand was encountered; in consequence, the expenditure for these foundations proved almost prohibitive.

Caissons were enclosed dry chambers built on river beds to facilitate the construction of bridge piers.

Near-synonym: pontoon

Near-synonym: limber

Over hill, over dale / As we hit the dusty trail, / And those caissons go rolling along.

Synonyms for caisson

Antonyms for caisson

Related Words

Word Forms

• caissons

Usage Notes

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