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bascule bridge

1 of 1noun
/ˈbæskjul brɪdʒ/
Forms:bascule bridges
1

a type of movable bridge that can be raised and lowered to allow for the passage of water traffic

A bascule bridge is a type of movable bridge with a section that can be raised or lowered to allow boats and ships to pass underneath. It usually has a weight system that helps lift the movable part of the bridge when needed. When lowered, the bridge forms a solid connection for vehicles and pedestrians to cross. This type of bridge is often found in places with heavy boat traffic, such as near harbors or along rivers, where a fixed bridge would block navigation.

  • The bascule bridge lifted to let the large cargo ship pass through the river.
  • We had to wait for the bascule bridge to close before we could continue our drive.
  • The workers were busy inspecting the bascule bridge to make sure it was functioning properly.
  • The bascule bridge is raised every hour to allow boats to go through the canal.
  • It was exciting to watch the bascule bridge open for the sailboats.