Conclusion
An anabranch is a type of river or stream that diverges from the main channel and then rejoins it later on. This phenomenon is commonly observed in river systems that have large floodplains, where the water flow can split into multiple channels. In this article, we will explore the definition and meaning of anabranch, its origin, and its associations.
Definitions
An anabranch is defined as a secondary channel of a river that diverges from the main channel and then rejoins it later on. This phenomenon is often observed in river systems that have large floodplains, where the water flow can split into multiple channels. An anabranch can also refer to a stream or river that flows into another stream or river, which then flows into a larger body of water.
Origin
The word anabranch is derived from the Greek words “ana” meaning “upward” and “branchia” meaning “gill.” The term was first used in the 19th century to describe the branching of rivers and streams.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Oxford English Dictionary, an anabranch is “a secondary channel of a river, especially one that rejoins the main channel after a distance.” Merriam-Webster defines it as “a stream that diverges from the main channel of a river and reenters it downstream.”
Associations
An anabranch is often associated with river systems that have large floodplains, where the water flow can split into multiple channels. It is also associated with the formation of deltas, where sediment is deposited at the mouth of a river and forms new land.
Synonyms
Synonyms for anabranch include distributary, bifurcation, and branch.
Antonyms
Antonyms for anabranch include main channel, trunk stream, and primary flow.
The same root words
The root words of anabranch are “ana” meaning “upward” and “branchia” meaning “gill.” Other words with the same root words include anadromous (referring to fish that migrate from the sea to freshwater to spawn), anaerobic (referring to organisms that can live without oxygen), and anatomy (referring to the study of the structure of living organisms).
Example Sentences
- The anabranch of the river provided a peaceful spot for fishing.
- The delta was formed by the anabranch of the river depositing sediment at its mouth.
- The anabranch rejoined the main channel after a few miles.
An anabranch is a secondary channel of a river that diverges from the main channel and then rejoins it later on. This phenomenon is often observed in river systems that have large floodplains, where the water flow can split into multiple channels. The word anabranch is derived from the Greek words “ana” meaning “upward” and “branchia” meaning “gill.” It is often associated with the formation of deltas and is a common feature of river systems around the world.