Translation and Meaning of: ダム - damu

A palavra japonesa 「ダム」 (damu) refere-se a um "dique" ou "represa". Sua origem é uma adoção do termo inglês "dam". Essa palavra chegou ao Japão no período da modernização, quando muitos conceitos ocidentais foram introduzidos na língua japonesa para descrever inovações tecnológicas e infraestrutura. Desde então, tornou-se uma parte comum do vocabulário técnico e cotidiano relacionado a engenharia e gerenciamento de água.

In etymology, the word is directly derived from English, but still reflects the importance of hydraulic structures in Japanese society. The use of dams and reservoirs is essential for water supply, flood control, and hydropower generation. The integration of this concept into the language exemplifies how practical needs influence linguistic and cultural development.

Functions and importance of dams

Dams, or 「ダム」 (damu), perform several crucial functions, such as:

Water storage for agricultural and domestic use;
Flood control and water management in large basins;
Electricity generation through hydropower plants;
Recreation and tourism in areas around lakes formed by dams.

The relevance of 「ダム」 (damu) in modern infrastructure is undeniable. For example, the construction of large dams along rivers has helped shape not only the natural landscape of Japan but also its economic development. Furthermore, these structures are often seen as a symbol of progress and technological achievement in contemporary society. The word continues to be widely used in debates about environmental policies and water resource management in Japan and other countries.

Vocabulary

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Synonyms and similar words

堰 (Seki) - Dam or structure to control water flow.
水門 (Suimon) - Water gate, a structure to regulate the level and flow of water in rivers or channels.
ダムウォール (Damu Wooru) - Wall of a dam, part of the structure that holds the water.
ダム本体 (Damu Hontai) - Dam body, the main structure that stores water.