The correct spelling of "watering place" is /ˈwɔː.tər.ɪŋ pleɪs/. The first syllable is pronounced with the vowel sound represented by the letter "o" followed by the consonant blend "w." The "a" in the second syllable is pronounced with the "ɔː" sound as in "law" or "paw." The final syllable is pronounced with the long "a" as in "place." "Watering place" refers to a location where animals go to drink or where water is provided for them.
A watering place refers to a location that provides access to water for various purposes, such as drinking, bathing, or watering animals. It can be a natural water source, such as a river, lake, or well, or a man-made structure like a fountain, trough, or reservoir. Often found in arid regions or areas lacking reliable water sources, watering places serve as vital meeting points for humans and animals alike.
Historically, watering places played a crucial role in the survival and development of communities. They served as gathering spots for individuals seeking water for basic needs, fostering social interactions and exchange of information. Moreover, these places served as essential stations for travel and trade routes, providing a much-needed reprieve for both humans and pack animals during long journeys.
In terms of their significance for wildlife and livestock, watering places are essential for nourishment and hydration. They attract various species of birds, mammals, and reptiles, creating an ecosystem hub where different organisms interact and rely on one another for survival. Watering places are often equipped with troughs, ponds, or small reservoirs to sustain livestock and wildlife populations during dry spells, ensuring their well-being and ultimately benefiting the entire ecosystem.
In modern times, watering places continue to play a crucial role in rural areas and agricultural communities. They can be found on farms, ranches, or any location where water is essential for livestock, crop irrigation, or industrial purposes. Additionally, many public parks and recreational areas provide watering places for visitors or animals, ensuring a safe and reliable water supply for both humans and wildlife.
A place where water may be obtained for a ship, for cattle, &c.; a place to which people resort for drinking mineral water; a sea-bathing place.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The etymology of the word "watering place" derives from Middle English, with an ancestry rooted in Old English and Germanic origins.
The word "watering" can be traced back to the Old English word "wæterian", which means "to water, to moisten, or to soak". It is related to the Germanic root "watōną" and the Old High German word "wazzōn", both meaning "to wet, to water".
The use of "place" in this context stems from Middle English, where it also had Old English and Germanic origins. The Old English word for "place" is "plǣce", derived from the Proto-Germanic word "plakjaz", meaning "spot, place".
Therefore, when combined, the term "watering place" refers to a location or spot where watering or moistening takes place.