definition
strict definition
trench
A waterless excavated channel below mean surrounding surface level, bounded by retained earth on both sides.
A trench is an excavated pathway or channel which is not filled with water. It must be dug into the earth below the mean ambient surface level; a gap blasted through an outcropping, hill, or mountain does not count as a trench. It must also be bounded by retained earth on both sides.
The excavation lies below the ambient terrain rather than merely cutting through a raised hill or outcrop. Earth remaining on both sides bounds the channel.
A canal is a constructed navigable water channel. The trench has the stated waterless form instead.
Related definitions
-
landfill
An area whose shape is formed by accumulated refuse, whether deposited in an excavation or above existing ground. -
open pit
An excavated hole in the earth bounded on all sides and fully open to the atmosphere. -
underground mine
A cavity or network of tunnels dug under the earth for extraction of minerals. -
well
A shaft drilled, bored, or dug into the earth to extract water, oil, natural gas, or similar substances.