ORANGE RIVER Meaning and
Definition
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The Orange River is a major river in Southern Africa, rising in the Drakensberg Mountains in Lesotho and flowing westward for approximately 2,200 kilometers (1,367 miles). It serves as the longest river in South Africa and forms part of the international borders between South Africa and Namibia, as well as South Africa and Lesotho. The Orange River plays a significant role in the region's geography, hydrology, and ecology.
Characterized by its orange-brown color, which is derived from the iron oxide present in the sand and rocks along its course, the river is known for its powerful flow, diverse wildlife, and key role in irrigation and hydroelectric power generation. Its fertile floodplains have been utilized for agriculture, particularly for the cultivation of grapes along the river valley, making it an important region for South Africa's wine industry.
Historically, the Orange River played a vital role in shaping the cultures and societies of the indigenous peoples inhabiting its banks, as well as early European colonial activity in the region. It was named after the Dutch monarch, William of Orange, by the Dutch explorer Robert Jacob Gordon in the 18th century. Additionally, the river's flow has been harnessed for irrigation schemes, such as the Orange River Project, which provides water for agriculture and energy production.
Overall, the Orange River is a prominent geographical feature, providing not only crucial water resources but also acting as a natural boundary, supporting biodiversity, and contributing to the livelihoods of those living along its shores.
Common Misspellings for ORANGE RIVER
- irange river
- krange river
- lrange river
- prange river
- 0range river
- 9range river
- oeange river
- odange river
- ofange river
- otange river
- o5ange river
- o4ange river
- orznge river
- orsnge river
- orwnge river
- orqnge river
- orabge river
- oramge river
- orajge river
Etymology of ORANGE RIVER
The word "orange" comes from the Old French word "pomme d'orange", meaning "apple from China". The orange fruit was originally brought from Southeast Asia to the Mediterranean region by Arab traders. The name of the fruit gradually evolved to "orange" in English.
The term "Orange River" is derived from the name of the fruit, as the river flows through the region where wild oranges were found. The river is also known as the "Gariep River" in some African languages.
Similar spelling words for ORANGE RIVER
- orange juice,
- orange peel,
- orange daisy,
- orange grass,
- Orange Group,
- orange grove,
- orange bat,
- orange red,
- orange pekoe,
- orange tree,
- orangeade,
- Orange Order,
- orange zest,
- Orinoco River,
- orange liqueur,
- Orange Tortrix,
- orange milkwort,
- orange rind,
- orange soda,
- orange toast.
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