Waterways: meaning, definitions and examples

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waterways

 

[ ˈwɔːtərweɪz ]

Context #1

transportation

Waterways refer to navigable routes of water, such as rivers, canals, and seas, that are used for transportation purposes. They play a crucial role in facilitating the movement of goods and people across different regions.

Synonyms

aquatic pathways, navigable channels, water routes

Examples of usage

  • Many cities developed along major waterways for easy access to trade routes.
  • The expansion of the canal system improved the efficiency of waterway transportation.
  • Waterways are essential for the shipping industry to transport goods internationally.
Context #2

geography

In geography, waterways are natural or man-made bodies of water that are used for various purposes, including irrigation, recreation, and biodiversity conservation. They are vital for sustaining ecosystems and supporting biodiversity.

Synonyms

aquatic systems, hydrological networks, water bodies

Examples of usage

  • The Amazon River is one of the longest waterways in the world.
  • The construction of dams can impact the flow of water in waterways and affect ecosystems.
  • Waterways provide habitats for diverse aquatic species.

Translations

Translations of the word "waterways" in other languages:

🇵🇹 vias navegáveis

🇮🇳 जलमार्ग

🇩🇪 Wasserstraßen

🇮🇩 jalur air

🇺🇦 водні шляхи

🇵🇱 drogi wodne

🇯🇵 水路

🇫🇷 voies navigables

🇪🇸 vías fluviales

🇹🇷 su yolları

🇰🇷 수로

🇸🇦 الممرات المائية

🇨🇿 vodní cesty

🇸🇰 vodné cesty

🇨🇳 水道

🇸🇮 vodne poti

🇮🇸 vatnsleiðir

🇰🇿 су жолдары

🇬🇪 წყლის გზები

🇦🇿 su yolları

🇲🇽 vías fluviales

Word origin

The term 'waterways' has been in use since the early 19th century and originated from the combination of 'water' and 'ways'. It reflects the importance of water as a medium for transportation and communication. Throughout history, civilizations have thrived along waterways, utilizing them for trade, agriculture, and travel. The development of waterway infrastructure has shaped the growth of societies and economies, making waterways a significant aspect of human civilization.

See also: water, waterbird, watercourse, watercraft, waterfall, waterfowl, waterfront, waterhole, waterlogged, watermelon, waterproof, waterproofing, watertight, waterway.