Savanna Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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savanna

[sษ™หˆvanษ™ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

African wildlife habitat

A savanna is a flat grassland in a tropical or subtropical region, typically with scattered trees. It is characterized by a warm climate, seasonal rainfall, and a diverse range of wildlife.

Synonyms

grassland, plain, prairie.

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Word Description / Examples
savanna

Often used to describe a tropical or subtropical region with a mixture of grasses and scattered trees, typically found in Africa, South America, and Australia.

  • Lions and elephants roam the vast savannas of Africa
  • The savanna is characterized by a distinct wet and dry season
grassland

A general term for large open areas where grasses are the dominant vegetation, can be temperate or tropical, and is not specific to a particular region.

  • The grasslands of the Midwest United States are home to many species of birds
  • Farmers often use grasslands for grazing their cattle
plain

Refers to broad, flat lands with few trees, and is a more general term that can describe many types of ecosystems, often used for geographic or topographic descriptions.

  • The Great Plains in North America are known for their extensive flat areas
  • She stood on the plains, watching the sunset dip below the horizon
prairie

Specifically describes large, open, and mostly treeless areas of temperate grasslands found particularly in North America. Often associated with the central United States and southern Canada.

  • The prairies are filled with wildflowers in the springtime
  • Buffalo once roamed freely across the vast prairies

Examples of usage

  • The savanna is home to a variety of animals such as lions, zebras, and elephants.
  • Many African countries have vast savannas that attract tourists from around the world.

Translations

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Origin of 'savanna'

The word 'savanna' comes from the Spanish word 'sabana' which originated from the Taino word for 'treeless plains'. Savannas are found in various parts of the world, but are most commonly associated with Africa. They play a crucial role in supporting a wide range of wildlife and are important ecosystems.


Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #21,671, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.