Range Meaning and Definition
Range
Pronunciation
/rænʤ/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A range is a series of mountains or hills, a chain of peaks or a series of mountains that are close together.
Examples
1. “The Rocky Mountains are a range that spans over 3,000 miles.”
2. “The Himalayan range is the highest mountain range in the world.”
Synonyms
1. Chain
2. Group
Antonyms
1. Solitary
2. Isolated
Additional Information
Ranges can be formed through various geological processes, such as volcanic activity, tectonic plate movement, or erosion. They can be mountain ranges, hill ranges, or even coastal ranges. Ranges can also be natural or artificial, created by human activity such as deforestation or land reclamation. In geography, the term “range” is often used to describe a region or area with distinct physical features, such as the Great Plains range or the Coastal Range of California. The term is also used in other fields, such as engineering, where it refers to a series of pipes or ducts, or in music, where it refers to a series of notes or sounds.
Ranges can be a source of breathtaking scenery, attracting tourists and outdoor enthusiasts. They can also provide habitats for diverse ecosystems and species, supporting conservation efforts. Furthermore, ranges can hold significant cultural and spiritual importance for indigenous communities, who have traditionally revered these lands for centuries.
The study of ranges is a significant aspect of geography, geology, and environmental science. Researchers and scientists work to understand the formation, evolution, and impact of ranges on the surrounding environment and ecosystems. This knowledge helps inform practices such as environmental conservation, sustainable land use, and disaster management.
In everyday language, the term “range” is often used to describe a series of devices, products, or services, such as a range of smartphones, a range of makeup shades, or a range of insurance plans. This usage emphasizes the variety and diversity of options available within a particular category.
The word “range” has a rich etymology, dating back to Old English and Middle English. It is derived from the Proto-Germanic word *rangiz, which is also the source of the Modern German word “Ring.” Over time, the meaning of the word expanded to include the concept of a series or chain of things.
In terms of usage notes, the word “range” is typically used as a noun, but it can also be used as a verb, meaning to move or extend over a wide area. For example, “The pilot had to range the aircraft to cover the entire country.” However, this usage is less common and often considered informal.
The word “range” appears in various cultural references, such as the Range Distant of stars in the novel “Dune” by Frank Herbert or the Range War of the American Old West in films and TV shows. These depictions often emphasize the drama, conflict, or mystique surrounding these ranges.
Some idiomatic expressions or phrases that include the word “range” are “in range” (within a certain distance or scope), “out of range” (beyond a certain distance or scope), “range of motion” (the movement of a joint or limb), and “range of products” (a variety of goods or services offered by a company).
Words or phrases closely related to “range” include “extent,” “span,” “breadth,” and “variety.” These words convey similar meanings of distance, scope, or diversity, and are often used interchangeably in certain contexts.
Common collocations with the word “range” include “mountain range,” “desert range,” “hill range,” and “coastal range.” These phrases emphasize the specific type or location of the range being described.
The frequency of use of the word “range” in modern language is moderate to high, depending on the context and register. It is widely used in technical fields such as geography, geology, and engineering, as well as in everyday language to describe a series or variety of things.
Some common misspellings and variations of the word “range” include “rangee,” “rangea,” or “renge.” However, these variants are generally considered errors and not acceptable in formal writing or technical contexts.