1. A sluice gate or tidal valve used in coastal areas to control water flow and prevent saltwater intrusion into freshwater marshes or agricultural land.
Usage: chiefly Canadian and Maritime usage; also spelled 'aboiteau' (singular)

Examples

• The aboiteaux along the Bay of Fundy coast help farmers manage water levels in their marshlands.
• During high tide, the aboiteaux closes automatically to keep salt water out of the freshwater ponds.
• The old aboiteaux structure dates back to the 18th century and remains an important part of local water management.
• Engineers inspected the aboiteaux to ensure it was functioning properly before the spring tides.
• The aboiteaux allows fresh water to drain out while preventing the ocean from flowing back in.