The term 'highway shoulder' refers to the area of a road that is located between the main roadway and the edge of the pavement. The shoulder is typically used for emergency stopping, as well as providing a safe area for pedestrians and cyclists. In crossword puzzles, the term 'BERM' is often used to refer to the highway shoulder. A BERM is an embankment or raised barrier that is built along the side of a road. It is usually constructed from soil, gravel, or other materials to provide a safe area for vehicles and pedestrians.