trenches

NOUN

ditch, channel dug in earth

Synonyms

STRONGEST

dike foxhole gorge gully moat pit trough waterway

STRONG

arroyo canal cut depression drain drill dugout earthwork entrenchment excavation fosse furrow gulch gutter hollow main rut sink tube

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Pretzel’s lore intensified amid the Siege of Vienna in 1529, when the Ottoman Empire attempted to capture the city by digging extensive lines of trenches.

From Salon • Apr. 28, 2026

Four years ago, Robert Brovdi was more comfortable in auction houses like Christie's than filthy trenches.

From BBC • Apr. 27, 2026

Asked who has stood out in the trenches, Chesney cited Aiden Gobaira, Julian Armella and Riley Robell.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 14, 2026

Most other moms I talked to when I was in the breastfeeding trenches were probably experiencing a dopamine dip that was subtle and regulated.

From Slate • Mar. 15, 2026

They dug trenches, secured supply lines and were sent out on night exercises that were farcical for the infantrymen because the purpose was never explained and there was a shortage of weapons.

From "Atonement" by Ian McEwan