Mesa Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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mesa

[ˈmeɪsə ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

furniture

A flat-topped piece of furniture with a raised edge, used for eating, writing, or working on.

Synonyms

desk, dining table, table.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
mesa	Mainly used in Spanish-speaking countries to refer to any kind of table or a high, flat, and isolated terrain with steep sides, commonly found in deserts. El libro está sobre la mesa. The mesa towered over the desert landscape.
table	A general word that can refer to any flat surface with legs used for various purposes such as eating, working, or placing items. It is the most versatile term among the given options. She placed the vase on the table. We played cards at the table.
dining table	Used for meals, usually found in dining rooms or kitchens. Often larger and designed to seat multiple people. The family gathered around the dining table for dinner. We need to buy a new dining table for the house.
desk	Specifically refers to a piece of furniture with a flat surface for writing, work, or reading, often found in offices, schools, or home offices. She organized her books and laptop on the desk. He has a new desk in his office.

Examples of usage

She sat at the mesa, sipping her coffee.
The family gathered around the mesa for dinner.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

geography

An isolated flat-topped hill with steep sides, found in landscapes with horizontal strata.

Synonyms

butte, plateau, tableland.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
mesa	A flat-topped hill with steep, often vertical sides, found mainly in arid environments. The mesa provided a stunning view of the surrounding desert. We set up camp near the base of the mesa.
plateau	A broad, flat area of high land, often extensive in size, and found in various environments. The village was situated on a high plateau. The plateau stretched out for miles, covered in lush grass.
tableland	Another term for a plateau, usually used in more formal or academic contexts. Explorers mapped the vast tableland in the central region. The flora on the tableland was diverse and unique.
butte	An isolated hill with steep sides and a small, flat top, often smaller than a mesa. Found mostly in arid regions. The butte stood alone in the vast, empty landscape. Climbing the butte was more challenging than we expected.

Examples of usage

The mesa rose abruptly from the desert floor.
They hiked to the top of the mesa for a panoramic view.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Geography

Mesas are formed through erosion, where softer rock wears away and leaves harder rock on top.
The term 'mesa' comes from Spanish, meaning 'table,' due to its flat shape.
Mesas are often surrounded by canyons or valleys, making them stand out dramatically in the landscape.

Cultural Significance

In indigenous cultures, mesas have served as sacred sites and are often rich in archaeological significance.
Many Native American tribes in the Southwest United States build settlements on mesas for protection and strategic advantages.
The scenic beauty and unique ecosystems of mesas have inspired numerous works of art and literature.

Ecology

The unique flat tops of mesas can support different types of flora and fauna compared to the surrounding areas.
Higher elevations on mesas can create isolated ecosystems, allowing for unique species to thrive away from the competition below.
Some mesas have a different climate on top versus the base, influencing the types of plants and animals that can live there.

Scientific Studies

Geologists study mesas to understand erosion patterns and how landscapes evolve over time.
Mesas can be indicators of past environmental conditions, as the age of the rock can suggest how long the mesa has been standing.
The unique geological features of mesas are often used as examples in geology textbooks to illustrate erosion and sedimentation.

Travel and Tourism

Mesas are popular tourist attractions, offering stunning views and hiking opportunities in many national parks.
Famous mesas like Monument Valley attract photographers, filmmakers, and nature lovers from around the world.
Some sites, like the Grand Canyon area, showcase mesas that provide a glimpse into the Earth's geological history.

Origin of 'mesa'

The word 'mesa' originated from Spanish, meaning 'table'. It was first used in English to describe the flat-topped hills found in the American Southwest. These geological formations have become iconic symbols of the region, attracting tourists and geologists alike.