1. a barrier built across a river or stream to control the flow of water
2. the female parent of a four-legged animal, especially a horse or dog
Usage: technical

1. to build a dam across a river or stream
2. to hold back or restrain something

Examples

• The Hoover Dam generates electricity for millions of people.
• Beavers built a dam across the creek.
• The mare was an excellent dam who produced many champion foals.
• Engineers will dam the river to create a reservoir.
• She tried to dam her tears but couldn’t stop crying.
• The new policy aims to dam the flow of illegal immigration.
• Heavy rains caused the dam to overflow.