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A.Word.A.Day--riprap

riprap (RIP-rap) noun

1. A protective foundation, embankment, etc. made of loose chunks of stones placed together.

2. Material used for such a construction.

verb tr.

To construct, or strengthen with, a riprap.

[Reduplication of rap.]

"Access to Everett's waterfront has been blocked by railroad tracks, asphalt and political riprap, said Peggy Toepel, head of the Everett Shorelines Coalition, which advocates for public waterfront access." Janice Podsada; Once Pipeline is Finished, New Beach Can Emerge; Daily Herald (Everett, Washington); Dec 1, 2003.

"The seawall, which lies beneath the sand, is constructed of riprap, topped by imported dune grass from Holland." Carolyn Leal; Windows to the World; Santa Cruz Sentinel (California); Nov 23, 2003.

This week's theme: reduplicatives.

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