Backwater: meaning, definitions and examples
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backwater
[ˈbækˌwɔːtər ]
Definition
geographical area
Backwater refers to a body of water that is stagnant or flowing slowly, often formed where a river branches off or is blocked. It can also denote a remote or isolated place that lacks development or cultural relevance. The term can describe a quiet, underdeveloped area, conveying a sense of being cut off from modern influences.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The canoe glided quietly through the backwater.
- They decided to escape to a backwater village for the weekend.
- The backwater of the river was teeming with wildlife.
- She felt trapped in the backwater of her small town.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The term comes from combining 'back' meaning rear or behind, and 'water', referring to a body of water.
- Historically, it described areas where water didn't flow freely, often leading to stagnation.
Geography
- Backwaters are often found in regions with slow-moving waterways, like marshes or deltas.
- In some cultures, these areas are vital for biodiversity, supporting unique ecosystems.
Culture
- In literature, backwater settings symbolize isolation or a slower pace of life, often contrasting with urban rush.
- Films may depict backwater locations as places where traditional lifestyles persist amidst modernization.
Environmental Science
- Stagnant or slow-moving water in backwaters can lead to unique habitats for various aquatic species.
- These areas are crucial for filtering pollutants, showing their importance in environmental health.
Sociology
- Backwater towns often represent communities that feel left behind in terms of development or innovation.
- The term can also describe social groups resistant to change, existing away from the mainstream.
Translations
Translations of the word "backwater" in other languages:
🇵🇹 águas paradas
🇮🇳 नदी का पिछला भाग
🇩🇪 Stillgewässer
🇮🇩 air tenang
🇺🇦 задній водотік
🇵🇱 woda stojąca
🇯🇵 後水域
🇫🇷 eaux dormantes
🇪🇸 aguas estancadas
🇹🇷 durgun su
🇰🇷 고인 물
🇸🇦 مياه راكدة
🇨🇿 klidná voda
🇸🇰 stojatá voda
🇨🇳 滞水
🇸🇮 stagnantna voda
🇮🇸 stagnant vatn
🇰🇿 тұрып қалған су
🇬🇪 დარგული წყალი
🇦🇿 sakin su
🇲🇽 aguas estancadas