What are end substructures commonly referred to as?

End substructures are commonly referred to as abutments because they serve as the supportive structure at the ends of a bridge or similar construction. Abutments not only support the weight of the bridge spans but also help transfer the loads from the superstructure to the foundations. They play a crucial role in maintaining the stability of the structure by resisting horizontal forces, such as those from wind or seismic activity, as well as vertical loads from traffic and environmental factors.

Footings, while important in supporting various structural elements, are specifically the base that supports columns or walls; they are not exclusive to end substructures. Columns are vertical supports that carry loads and transfer them down to the footing, but they are not synonymous with end substructures. Piles are deep foundation elements used to transfer loads from structures to deeper, more stable soil or rock, but they also do not specifically represent end substructures. Therefore, the term "abutments" is the most accurate descriptor for end substructures in the context of bridge construction.