GREAT BASIN Meaning and
Definition
-
The Great Basin refers to a vast geographical region located in the western United States, primarily encompassing the states of Nevada, Utah, Oregon, and California. It is characterized by a distinctive geographic feature, a closed drainage basin, with no outlet to the ocean. This means that the precipitation that falls within the Great Basin does not drain towards the sea but instead forms various internal river systems, marshes, and saline lakes.
The region is predominantly arid and is enclosed by mountain ranges, such as the Sierra Nevada to the west and the Rocky Mountains to the east. It spans an area of approximately 190,000 square miles and is composed of diverse landscapes, including deserts, sagebrush plains, and isolated mountain ranges. Notable landforms within the Great Basin include the ancient, flat-floored valleys known as basins and ranges.
Despite its aridity, the Great Basin also hosts a unique array of flora and fauna that have adapted to the desert environment. Species such as sagebrush, greasewood, and alkaline scrub thrive in the region, while desert animals like jackrabbits, kit foxes, and desert tortoises are found in abundance.
Historically, the Great Basin was inhabited by various Native American tribes, most notably the Shoshone, Paiute, and Washoe. The discovery of precious metals, particularly silver, in the 19th century led to increased settlement and economic activity in the region. Today, the Great Basin serves as an important source for mining, agriculture, and recreation, with several national parks and recreational areas drawing visitors to explore its unique landscapes and natural wonders.
Common Misspellings for GREAT BASIN
- freat basin
- vreat basin
- breat basin
- hreat basin
- yreat basin
- treat basin
- geeat basin
- gdeat basin
- gfeat basin
- gteat basin
- g5eat basin
- g4eat basin
- grwat basin
- grsat basin
- grdat basin
- grrat basin
- gr4at basin
- gr3at basin
- grezt basin
- grest basin
Etymology of GREAT BASIN
The word "Great Basin" originates from geographical features in western North America. The term "basin" refers to a large, low-lying area surrounded by higher terrain. The "Great Basin" specifically refers to a large region in the western United States that spans parts of Nevada, Utah, Idaho, Oregon, and California.
The etymology of the word "Great Basin" can be broken down as follows:
1. Great: The word "great" comes from the Old English word "grēat", which means "big" or "large". It is derived from the Proto-Germanic word "grōtaz".
2. Basin: The word "basin" has its roots in the Old French word "bacin", which means "bowl" or "container". It is derived from the Late Latin word "baccinus", meaning a "wine vessel".
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
