Hayden Page 33

Opposite the point bars, the stream's energy is at its highest. Here, the stream encounters the steep outer bank of the meander where it is forced to change direction.
Because this is where the stream's energy is highest, this side of the stream bank is constantly being eroded. Hence, it is called a Cut Bank. The continuous removal of material from this side of the stream is what causes the stream to meander.
Let's take a closer look at a stream meander...

Opposite the point bars, the stream's energy is at its highest. Here, the stream encounters the steep outer bank of the meander where it is forced to change direction.