CROSS RIVER Meaning and
Definition
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A cross river refers to a body of water, typically a wide and navigable river, that intersects or intersects at right angles with another watercourse or geographical feature, forming a distinct junction. This term is primarily used in geography and cartography to describe a specific type of river or waterway arrangement.
A cross river is characterized by its perpendicular intersection with another river, stream, or even a canal, resulting in the formation of a distinctive "cross" shape. This geographical phenomenon occurs when two watercourses flow at right angles or near right angles to each other, merging temporarily or permanently. The point at which the two waterways meet is known as a cross river junction.
These cross river junctions can have various sizes and scales, depending on the specific geographical context. They may range from small, insignificant intersections to major confluences that significantly impact the surrounding landscape and local ecosystems. Cross rivers often serve as important landmarks in topographic maps, aiding in navigation and understanding of the local geography.
These intersections can also hold cultural, economic, and ecological significance. They may form natural or man-made transportation routes, enabling river crossings and facilitating trade and communication between different regions. Furthermore, cross rivers often provide diverse habitats for various aquatic species, contributing to the overall ecological richness and biodiversity of the area.
In conclusion, a cross river represents a type of river or waterway intersection where two watercourses meet at right angles, often with notable geographical, cultural, and ecological implications.
Etymology of CROSS RIVER
The term "cross river" is a combination of two words, "cross" and "river", each with their own distinct etymology.
1. Cross: The word "cross" originates from the Old English word "cros", which in turn derived from the Old Latin word "crux". The term "crux" referred to both the physical structure of a cross and the act of crossing. It can be traced back even earlier to the Proto-Indo-European root word "*kreus", meaning "to cross" or "to turn".
2. River: The word "river" can be traced back to the Old English word "riever", which evolved from the earlier Proto-Germanic word "*riban". This term ultimately comes from the Proto-Indo-European root word "*rei-", meaning "to move or flow".
