Irrigated Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

Historical Origins

• The practice of irrigation dates back over 5,000 years, with ancient civilizations in Mesopotamia creating complex systems to water their crops.
• In ancient Egypt, the Nile River played a crucial role in irrigation, as farmers relied on its flooding to water their fields.
• The word 'irrigate' comes from the Latin 'irrigare', which means 'to water' or 'to moisten'.

Science

• Irrigation helps prevent soil erosion by stabilizing the soil with moisture, making it less likely to wash away.
• Different irrigation methods – such as drip, sprinkler, or surface irrigation – can be used depending on the type of crops and local climate.
• Irrigated land can yield much higher crop production compared to rain-fed agriculture, supporting food security in many regions.

Cultural Significance

• In many cultures, access to irrigation systems has historically been a source of wealth and power, shaping societies and economies.
• Traditional water systems in places like India, known as 'tank irrigation', include large reservoirs built to collect and store rainwater for dry seasons.
• Irrigation festivals are celebrated in some cultures to honor the water sources and deities that help grow their crops.

Environment

• While irrigation is crucial for agriculture, improper management can lead to overuse of water and depletion of local water resources.
• Some irrigation techniques can contribute to salinization of soil, where mineral salts accumulate and hinder the growth of plants.
• Sustainable irrigation practices, such as rainwater harvesting, are becoming increasingly important to ensure water availability for future generations.

Economics

• Globally, irrigated agriculture accounts for about 20% of the cultivated land but contributes to 40% of food production.
• Investment in irrigation infrastructure can dramatically increase crop yields, making it a priority for developing countries facing food shortages.
• Water pricing and management policies can impact the efficiency and sustainability of irrigation practices within agricultural systems.

The word 'irrigate' comes from the Latin 'irrigare', which means 'to water' or 'to wash', derived from 'in-' meaning 'in' and 'rigare' meaning 'to make straight or to lead'. Its use dates back to ancient civilizations where water management was crucial for agriculture. Early irrigation methods involved diverting water from rivers and streams to fields. As agriculture advanced, so did irrigation techniques, incorporating more sophisticated systems like canals and aqueducts. The term 'irrigated' has been utilized since the 15th century to describe lands that benefit from these artificial watering processes. Today, with the growth of population and agricultural demands, the importance of irrigation is more pronounced than ever, influencing both the economy and food security globally.

Position #8,671 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.

• ...
• 8668 suction
• 8669 transformer
• 8670 emotionally
• 8671 irrigated
• 8672 masonry
• 8673 validation
• 8674 astonishing
• ...