BACK WATER Meaning and
Definition
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Backwater refers to a body of stagnant or slow-moving water found behind an obstruction, such as a dam or a bend in a river. It is typically separated from the main current or stream and does not possess the same level of flow or movement. The term can also apply to a small and relatively isolated or remote area that is not influenced by the trends or developments of a larger or more populous region.
In the context of hydrology, backwaters are often formed due to a change in the topography of a watercourse, resulting in a decrease in velocity and the accumulation of water behind the obstruction. This stagnant or slow-moving water generally lacks the force or energy of the main stream and may exhibit different characteristics, such as warmer temperatures or increased sedimentation.
Beyond hydrological definitions, "backwater" can also carry a metaphorical meaning. In this sense, it refers to an overlooked or unprogressive region that lags behind in terms of socio-economic development, cultural advancements, or political influence. It suggests a place that is disconnected from the mainstream or overshadowed by more developed or influential areas. Thus, it can be used to describe a town, region, or community that is considered remote, stagnant, or resistant to change and progress.
Common Misspellings for BACK WATER
- backweater
- bakwater
- backwaer
- backwatter
- backwater
- back-watter
- vack water
- nack water
- hack water
- gack water
- bzck water
- bsck water
- bwck water
- bqck water
- baxk water
- bavk water
- bafk water
- badk water
- bacj water
- bacm water
Etymology of BACK WATER
The word "backwater" originated from the combination of two separate words: "back" and "water".
The word "back" comes from the Old English word "bæc", which means the rear part of something or the reverse side. It is related to the Old High German word "bahho" and the Gothic word "baks", both having a similar meaning.
The word "water" comes from the Old English word "wæter", which refers to the liquid substance that covers a significant part of the earth's surface. This word has Indo-European roots and is related to similar words in various other languages, such as the Old Frisian "weter" and the Old Norse "vatn".
Idioms with the word BACK WATER
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back water
"Back water" refers to a remote or isolated place, usually a rural area with little development or modern amenities. It can also be used to describe someone or something that is behind the times or out of touch with current trends or advancements.
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