Cordillera Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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cordillera
[kɔːrˈdɪl.ə.rə ]
Definition
geography range
A cordillera is an expansive chain of mountains that often stretches across a significant area. These mountain ranges usually consist of multiple parallel ranges and are known to be parts of larger geological formations. Cordilleras are important geographic features as they can influence climate and biodiversity in adjacent regions. They often serve as barriers for weather patterns and can affect the way ecosystems develop on either side. The term is widely used in the context of the Andes in South America, which is one of the longest cordilleras in the world.
Synonyms
highland, mountain range, ridge.
Examples of usage
- The Andes cordillera stretches from Venezuela to Chile.
- Cordilleras can significantly affect local weather patterns.
- Explorers often traverse the challenging terrain of a cordillera.
- The Himalayas are a famous example of a cordillera.
- Biodiversity is rich in many cordilleras around the world.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Geography
- The Andes in South America is the longest cordillera in the world, stretching over 7,000 kilometers (4,300 miles).
- Cordilleras often serve as natural borders between countries, impacting trade and travel throughout history.
Ecology
- Mountain ranges create unique habitats that are home to diverse plant and animal species, many of which are endemic.
- Cordilleras influence climate by affecting wind patterns, often creating rain shadows on one side, leading to varied ecosystems.
Culture
- Many indigenous cultures in the Andes have revered the cordillera, viewing mountains as sacred and central to their spiritual beliefs.
- Festivals and celebrations often revolve around the seasonal changes in the highlands, showcasing the importance of these mountain ranges in local traditions.
Sustainability
- Mountain ecosystems are increasingly threatened by climate change, with cordilleras facing rising temperatures and glacial melting.
- Efforts in conservation aim to protect these areas, recognizing their importance for biodiversity and water resources.
Origin of 'cordillera'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from Spanish, meaning 'a rope' or 'a string', which relates to how mountain ranges are connected like a long rope.
- The term was first used in the 19th century to describe the major mountain ranges found in the Andes region.
The term 'cordillera' originates from the Spanish word 'cordillera', which means 'a chain of hills or mountains'. It is derived from the Latin word 'chorda', meaning 'cord' or 'string', a reference to the way mountain ranges can resemble strings of beads as they stretch across the landscape. The use of the term became more prevalent during the Spanish colonization of the Americas in the 16th century, as explorers and geographers sought to document the vast and varied topographies they encountered. As Spanish language and culture spread throughout Latin America, so did the terminology used to describe its natural features, including the impressive mountain ranges that define the continent. The adoption of 'cordillera' in English reflects this historical influence and highlights the interconnectedness of languages in the context of geography.