Freshwater: meaning, definitions and examples
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freshwater
[ ˈfrɛshˌwɔtər ]
water type
Freshwater is water that is not salty and has a low concentration of dissolved salts. It is found in rivers, lakes, and ponds, and it is essential for the survival of many living organisms and ecosystems. Freshwater makes up approximately 2.5% of the Earth's total water supply.
Synonyms
clean water, natural water, non-salty water.
Examples of usage
- Many species of fish thrive in freshwater lakes.
- Freshwater resources are crucial for agriculture.
- Pollution can severely impact freshwater ecosystems.
Translations
Translations of the word "freshwater" in other languages:
🇵🇹 água doce
🇮🇳 मीठा पानी
🇩🇪 Süßwasser
🇮🇩 air tawar
🇺🇦 свіжа вода
🇵🇱 woda słodka
🇯🇵 淡水
🇫🇷 eau douce
🇪🇸 agua dulce
🇹🇷 tatlı su
🇰🇷 담수
🇸🇦 مياه عذبة
🇨🇿 sladkovodní
🇸🇰 sladkovodná
🇨🇳 淡水
🇸🇮 sladka voda
🇮🇸 sæta vatn
🇰🇿 тұщы су
🇬🇪 ტკბილი წყალი
🇦🇿 şirin su
🇲🇽 agua dulce
Etymology
The term 'freshwater' originates from the combination of 'fresh' and 'water'. The word 'fresh' comes from the Middle English 'fressh', which means 'new, recent, or unspoiled.' It is derived from the Old French 'frais' (meaning 'cool') and can be traced back to the Latin 'frigidus', meaning 'cold'. 'Water', on the other hand, has Old English roots with 'wæter'. In English literature, the use of 'freshwater' has been seen as early as the 15th century. Historically, freshwater sources such as rivers and lakes have been vital for human civilization, providing drinking water, irrigation for crops, and transport routes. Over time, understanding and protection of freshwater ecosystems have gained importance due to challenges posed by pollution and climate change.