Synonyms for

Rivers

Verb / ˈrɪvɜ:z / Another word for rivers — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

A river is a large, flowing body of water that usually empties into a sea or ocean.

Synonyms & similar words

river streams creeks brooks waterways rills runnels rills rivulets torrents brooklets branches distributaries outlets estuaries floods freshets spates tides currents flumes

Synonyms by register

Formal

watercourses channels streams

Informal

brooks creeks runs

Literary

currents flows arteries

Antonyms

lakes seas oceans ponds wells springs

Common collocations

  • fast-flowing river
  • wide river
  • river bank
  • river bed
  • river delta
  • river valley
  • river mouth

Word family

noun river
verb riverine

Usage note

While 'river' is a common noun, its plural form 'rivers' is used to refer to multiple distinct bodies of flowing water. It is generally not used metaphorically for anything other than large, flowing bodies of water.

Example sentences

  1. The rivers in the Amazon are home to many unique species of fish.
  2. The Colorado River carved the Grand Canyon over millions of years.
  3. The Nile River is the longest river in the world.
  4. The Hudson River flows through New York City.
  5. The Ganges River is considered sacred by Hindus.

Quotes

  • I am a river, and I will eventually end up in the sea. - Paulo Coelho
  • A river cuts through rock, not because of its power, but because of its persistence. - Jim Watkins
  • Life is like a river, always flowing and changing, but always finding its way back to the sea. - Anonymous

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