WATERSHED Meaning and
Definition
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Watershed is a noun that refers to a region or area of land where water flows into a particular river, lake, or ocean. It can also signify the boundary or ridge separating different drainage basins. In hydrology, a watershed is the area surrounding a body of water where precipitation (rain, snow, etc.) collects and then drains into that water body or its tributaries. This natural topographic feature acts as a demarcation line for the flow of water, guiding it towards a specific destination.
Furthermore, watershed can also be used metaphorically to describe a significant turning point or event that causes profound changes or effects. In this context, it signifies a critical moment or period that sets the stage for transformation, marking a departure from the past and leading to new developments or perspectives.
The term "watershed" originates from combining "water" and "shed," as water is shed off the land and funneled into specific channels. Watersheds play a crucial role in the water cycle and ecosystem functioning as they determine where water runoff and groundwater recharge occurs. Due to their ecological importance, watersheds are often subjects of scientific research, conservation efforts, and management strategies to safeguard and maintain water resources.
In summary, the word "watershed" denotes both a geographical area where water drains into a particular body of water and a significant turning point or event that influences subsequent developments.
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The range of high land in any district of country which forms the source of its various streams and rivers, shedding them off as it were from the roof of a house to their respective basins.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for WATERSHED
Etymology of WATERSHED
The word "watershed" has its origins in Old English, where it was spelled "water-scēadan", meaning "the place where water divides". The term "water" refers to the liquid substance, while "scēadan" means to "divide" or "separate", hence giving rise to the concept of a dividing area where water flows in different directions. Over time, the term evolved into "watershed" in modern English, which is now commonly used to refer to a geographical boundary separating the areas drained by different rivers or river systems.
Similar spelling words for WATERSHED
- water-shield,
- watercourse,
- Watershoot,
- outreached,
- water-wash,
- waders,
- outrushed,
- water gage,
- waiters,
- watercolor,
- watershed-based,
- Watterson,
- water gate,
- waterhouse,
- water ice,
- waitress,
- watergate,
- waters,
- water chute,
- water shrew,
- waterson,
- waterside,
- sub-watershed,
- waterspout,
- water gas,
- pre-watershed,
- water-cooled,
- waterskin,
- watercress,
- water-washed,
- waterwashed,
- water chute,
- watters.
