Caisson

Quick meaning: Caisson is a noun meaning (engineering) A structure with similar function that is temporary.

Meaning

(engineering) A structure with similar function that is temporary.

More Meanings

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

Example Sentences

Near-synonym: limber

Near-synonym: pontoon

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

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

Word Forms

• caissons

Synonyms for caisson

Depending on context, synonyms include cofferdam, coffer, camel, pontoon, limber, lacuna.

Related Words

Related dictionary entries include cofferdam, coffer, lacuna, tank, girder, canister.

Related Dictionary Tools