National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES) Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) Civil Practice Exam

"Fill" in construction terminology refers specifically to soil that has been excavated and then placed into an embankment or a specific location for the purpose of raising the ground level. This process is essential in creating a stable base for roads, buildings, and other structures. The fill material is often compacted to ensure stability and prevent future settling, which is important for the integrity of any structures that may be built on top of it.

In this context, "embankment" signifies that the fill is used to create an elevated area, typically needed in civil and geotechnical engineering projects. Properly managed fill contributes to the overall stability of the site and is critical for ensuring clear drainage and reducing potential erosion.

Transportation of soil, excavation techniques, and understanding the volume of loose material are related concepts, but they do not define "fill" as it is typically understood in construction. The nature of the material and its placement is what fundamentally characterizes filling operations in civil engineering.