dyke

Dyke (also dike) is a term with several distinct meanings. In civil and coastal engineering, a dyke is an embankment or levee designed to prevent flooding from seas, rivers, or rising water. Dykes or dikes may be earthworks, masonry, or concrete structures and are built along coastlines, riverbanks, or around reclaimed land. In some regions the term "dyke" is used interchangeably with "levee" or "embankment"; in American usage "dike" is more common for the barrier, while "dyke" may have other senses or be less preferred. In geology, a dyke or dike refers to a sheet of igneous rock that intrudes across existing rock layers and solidifies as magma crystallizes.

Etymology and spelling: The word derives from Dutch dijk, meaning "dike, dam, or embankment," and spread through Germanic languages into English. Spelling varies by region and tradition, with "dyke" more common in British usage and "dike" more common in American usage, particularly for the barrier sense.

LGBTQ+ usage: In lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender communities, "dyke" is a reclaimed self-identifier used by some lesbians; its acceptability varies by context. Some speakers use it as a term of empowerment; others consider it offensive if used by outsiders or in a hostile manner. When in doubt, use "lesbian" or ask for a person's preferred term.