Synonyms for

Watershed

Verb / ˈwɔ:tɜ:ˌʃed / / ˈwɑ:tɜ:ˌʃed / Another word for watershed — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

A watershed is an area of land where all the water that falls within it flows into the same river or lake.

Synonyms & similar words

basin landmark riverbasin waterparting catchmentbasin divide drainagearea turningpoint drainagebasin catchmentarea catchment watercourse stream creek brook rivulet runnel gully ravine valley glen dell dale hollow basin bowl reservoir

Synonyms by register

Formal

drainage basin catchment area river basin watershed area

Informal

area region spot zone

Literary

water-parting divide

Antonyms

dryness drought aridity barrenness desiccation

Common collocations

  • major watershed
  • watershed moment
  • critical watershed
  • watershed protection
  • watershed management
  • watershed boundary
  • watershed divide

Word family

noun watershed
verb watershed

Usage note

While 'watershed' can refer to a geographical area, it is more commonly used metaphorically to denote a turning point or a moment of significant change.

Example sentences

  1. The Mississippi River watershed covers over 1.2 million square miles.
  2. A healthy watershed is important for clean water and wildlife.
  3. The forest helps to protect the watershed by soaking up rainwater.
  4. The city built a dam to create a reservoir within the watershed.
  5. The community worked together to clean up the watershed and improve the water quality.

Quotes

  • A river is more than an amenity, it is a treasure. - Oliver Wendell Holmes
  • The water cycle and the life cycle are one. - Jacques Cousteau
  • Water is the driving force of all nature. - Leonardo da Vinci

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