What does snowbank mean?
A snowbank is a mound, ridge, or mass of snow that has accumulated, often beside a road, across a path, or around a vehicle or building. The word is particularly common in regions where repeated snowfall and snowplowing leave deep banks along the edges of roads and driveways. It can describe both the visible deposit of snow and the obstruction that such a deposit creates. For example, a driver may be unable to see a junction because of a high snowbank, while walkers may need to dig out of one to reach a gate or steps. Although snowbank is sometimes confused with snowdrift, the distinction is that a snowbank is an accumulated mass, while a snowdrift is principally formed and shaped by wind. The word combines the familiar elements snow and bank, presenting accumulated snow in the language of a raised ridge or barrier.
A mound, ridge, or mass of accumulated snow, especially one lying along a road, path, or open area.
"The path remained hidden beneath a deep snowbank."
Common in descriptions of winter conditions and the obstacles created by deep snowfall.
To form or remain as a bank or mound of snow.
"Snow banked against the western side of the building."
Relatively uncommon; more typical in descriptive or literary usage than in everyday speech.
The regular plural is used when referring to multiple snow deposits or obstacles.
"High snowbanks concealed the roadside barriers."
One snowbank can turn a clear road into an apparently impassable wall of white.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of snowbank
Snowbank is an English compound formed from the established words snow and bank. It developed in early modern English with the literal meaning of a bank or ridge of snow. Its snow component connects it with words such as snowfall, snowfield, and snowstorm, all built on the same English noun. Parallel compounds occur in other Germanic languages, including German Schneebank and Dutch sneeuwbank.
Related word forms
How snowbank is actually used
The noun is used in both British and American English and occurs mainly in literal descriptions of winter weather, roads, and outdoor spaces. The verb is comparatively uncommon.
Easily confused with snowbank
A snowbank is a piled or accumulated mass of snow, whereas a snowdrift is specifically snow deposited and shaped by the wind.