River Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

/ˈrɪvər/ 🔊

Part of Speech

Noun

Definition

A natural flowing body of water, usually freshwater, that begins at its source and flows towards its mouth, often emptying into another body of water, such as a lake, ocean, or sea.

Examples

• The river flowed peacefully through the valley.
• The river boat ride was a popular tourist attraction.

Synonyms

• Stream
• Brook

Antonyms

• Lake
• Ocean

Additional Information

Rivers play a crucial role in shaping the Earth’s landscape and supporting life. They provide habitats for a wide range of aquatic species and help to distribute nutrients and sediments throughout the environment. Many rivers are also used for irrigation, drinking water, and hydroelectric power.

In addition to their practical uses, rivers have also been a source of inspiration for artists, writers, and musicians throughout history. Their changing moods and temperaments have been immortalized in countless works of literature and music.

Etymology

The word “river” comes from the Old English word “rīVER”, which is derived from the Proto-Germanic word “*rīviz”, meaning “one who flows”. This is related to the Proto-Indo-European root “*reud-“, meaning “to flow”.

Usage Notes

River is typically used as a singular noun, but it can also be used in the plural form to refer to multiple rivers. For example, “The rivers in the valley are a popular spot for hiking and fishing.”

Cultural References

The phrase “following a river” is often used metaphorically to describe someone who is following their passion or dream. This phrase is commonly used in literature and poetry to convey a sense of aimlessness and freedom.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

“Take it with a grain of salt” is an idiomatic expression that is commonly used in English to advise someone to be cautious or skeptical. This phrase is thought to have originated from the ancient Roman practice of taking a small amount of salt with their wine to mask any bitterness.

Related Words or Phrases

• Stream
• Brook
• Canal

Collocations

• River bank
• Riverbed
• Riverstone

Frequency of Use

The word “river” is a common noun in English and is used frequently in everyday language. It is estimated that it is used around 1.5 million times per year in the United States alone.

Common Misspellings

• River -> Rivir
• River -> Rivver