Moorland: meaning, definitions and examples

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moorland

 

[ˈmʊərlənd ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

rural landscape

Moorland refers to open, uncultivated land typically covered with heather, grasses, and mosses. It is characterized by its wet and wild nature, often found in upland areas. Moorland provides important habitats for various wildlife species and is popular among hikers and nature enthusiasts.

Synonyms

heath, heathland, wasteland.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
moorland

Refer to wild, open land that is often characterized by peaty soil and covered with heather, moss, and grasses. Typically found in higher altitudes, it is often used in the context of natural landscapes.

  • We went hiking through the rugged moorland.
  • The horses grazed freely on the moorland.
heath

Involves open, uncultivated land covered mainly with low-growing shrubs and grasses, especially heather. Commonly found in more temperate regions and often mentioned in literature and poetry.

  • She loved to wander across the heath during summer.
  • The heath was in full bloom, covered in purple heather.
heathland

Similar to 'heath', but often used to describe larger areas of such land. It encompasses a broader expanse and might also support more diverse flora and fauna.

  • The conservation effort aimed to restore the heathland to its natural state.
  • Birdwatchers visited the heathland to observe rare species.
wasteland

Refers to unproductive, barren land that has been neglected or is unsuitable for farming. Often has a negative connotation and can imply desolation or ruin.

  • The abandoned factory was surrounded by acres of wasteland.
  • Years of neglect had turned the once fertile fields into a wasteland.

Examples of usage

  • The hikers enjoyed the vast expanse of moorland stretching out before them.
  • The moorland was alive with the calls of various birds.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word 'moor' comes from the Old English 'mōr', meaning 'wasteland' or 'swampy area'.
  • In historical texts, 'moorland' referred to uncultivated areas primarily used for grazing sheep.

Ecological Importance

  • Moorlands provide a unique habitat for wildlife, including birds like golden plovers and various insects.
  • They play a critical role in carbon storage, helping to mitigate climate change by absorbing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.

Cultural Significance

  • Moorlands are featured prominently in British literature, particularly in novels like 'Wuthering Heights' where the landscape shapes the story.
  • These landscapes have inspired many artists, especially during the Romantic period, to capture their wild beauty.

Geographical Distribution

  • Moorlands are primarily found in regions like Scotland, Wales, and parts of northern England, showcasing the diverse British countryside.
  • Worldwide, similar landscapes can be found in places like the Spanish highlands and parts of New Zealand, each supporting unique flora and fauna.

Environmental Challenges

  • Moorlands face threats from urban development and agricultural practices, which can lead to habitat loss.
  • Climate change is increasingly impacting moorland ecosystems, affecting water levels and plant growth.

Translations

Translations of the word "moorland" in other languages:

🇵🇹 pântano

🇮🇳 मूरलैंड

🇩🇪 Moorland

🇮🇩 tanah rawa

🇺🇦 болото

🇵🇱 wrzosowisko

🇯🇵 ムーアランド

🇫🇷 lande

🇪🇸 páramo

🇹🇷 bataklık arazi

🇰🇷 황무지

🇸🇦 أرض المستنقعات

🇨🇿 vřesoviště

🇸🇰 vresovisko

🇨🇳 沼泽地

🇸🇮 barje

🇮🇸 mýrlendi

🇰🇿 батпақты жер

🇬🇪 ჭაობი

🇦🇿 bataqlıq

🇲🇽 páramo