levee

/ˈlɛvi/
noun
  1. A wall of earth or concrete built along a river to prevent flooding.
    • After the hurricane, workers inspected the levee for cracks.
    • The city built a new levee to protect homes from the rising river.
    • Farmers rely on the levee to keep their fields dry during heavy rains.
  2. A formal reception or gathering, especially one held by a monarch or dignitary.
    • The governor's levee attracted many prominent citizens.
    • The queen held a levee for visiting ambassadors at the palace.
    • In the 18th century, a levee was a morning reception where nobles paid respects to the king.