Cordillera: meaning, definitions and examples
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cordillera
[ kɔːrˈdɪl.ə.rə ]
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
Translations of the word "cordillera" in other languages:
🇵🇹 cordilheira
🇮🇳 पहाड़ी श्रृंखला
🇩🇪 Gebirgskette
🇮🇩 pegunungan
🇺🇦 гірський хребет
🇵🇱 łańcuch górski
🇯🇵 山脈
🇫🇷 cordillère
🇪🇸 cordillera
🇹🇷 dağ silsilesi
🇰🇷 산맥
🇸🇦 سلسلة جبلية
🇨🇿 pohoří
🇸🇰 pohořie
🇨🇳 山脉
🇸🇮 gorski sistem
🇮🇸 fjallakerfi
🇰🇿 таулар тізбегі
🇬🇪 მთა/მთების სისტემა
🇦🇿 dağ silsiləsi
🇲🇽 cordillera
Etymology
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.