BERM

{ Berm Berme } (�), n. [[F. berme, of German origin; cf. G. brame, bräme, border, akin to E. brim.]] 1. 1. (Fort.) A narrow shelf or path between the bottom of a parapet and the ditch.
2. 2. (Engineering) A ledge at the bottom of a bank or cutting, to catch earth that may roll down the slope, or to strengthen the bank.