River Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐
river
[หrษชvษr ]
Definitions
flowing water
A river is a large, natural stream of flowing water. Rivers are typically found in valleys, and they play a crucial role in the ecosystem by providing habitats for various plants and animals. Rivers also serve as important transportation routes for trade and commerce.
Synonyms
stream, watercourse, waterway.
Examples of usage
- The Amazon River is the second longest river in the world.
- People enjoy fishing in the river on weekends.
large amount
In a metaphorical sense, a river can also refer to a large amount of something flowing or moving continuously. This usage is often seen in phrases like 'a river of tears' or 'a river of people.'
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- She cried a river when she heard the news.
- A river of fans flooded the streets after the concert.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Geography
- The longest river in the world is the Nile, stretching over 4,100 miles across northeastern Africa.
- Rivers often create fertile areas along their banks, which is why many cities are built near them.
- Some rivers can actually change their course over time due to erosion and sediment buildup.
Ecology
- Rivers provide habitats for a wide variety of wildlife, including fish, birds, and mammals.
- Healthy river ecosystems are crucial for maintaining biodiversity and water quality.
- Human activities like pollution and dam construction can greatly affect river habitats.
Culture
- Many ancient civilizations, such as the Mesopotamians and Egyptians, thrived near rivers due to their importance for agriculture.
- Rivers have been featured in countless stories, songs, and artworks throughout history, symbolizing life and change.
- The Amazon River is not only the largest river by volume, but it also holds cultural significance for many indigenous communities.
Science
- Rivers cycle water through the hydrological cycle, moving it from land to the ocean and back to rain.
- The speed and flow of a river can be affected by factors like rainfall, snowmelt, and human alterations.
- Studying river dynamics helps scientists predict flooding and understand climate change effects.
History
- The Indus River was crucial to the development of one of the worldโs oldest urban civilizations in ancient India.
- Throughout history, rivers have served as natural borders between nations and were often battlegrounds in wars.
- In ancient Rome, the Tiber River played a central role in the cityโs development and its myths.
Origin of 'river'
The word 'river' can be traced back to the Old English word 'rฤซfer,' which originally referred to a large natural stream of water. Over the centuries, the term has evolved to encompass various sizes and types of flowing water bodies. Rivers have played a significant role in human history, serving as sources of water, food, transportation, and energy. They have inspired countless works of art, literature, and music, symbolizing the flow of time and life itself.