headwaters
UK: ˈhɛdˌwɔːtəz | US: ˈhɛdˌwɔːtərz
n. the source or upper part of a river or stream.
The word "headwaters" combines "head," derived from Old English hēafod (meaning "top" or "origin"), and "waters," from Old English wæter (referring to bodies of water). The term logically describes the uppermost section of a river system, where the water originates. This compound reflects a straightforward descriptive approach in English, merging two concrete concepts to pinpoint a geographical feature.
The expedition aimed to reach the headwaters of the Amazon River.
Pollution in the headwaters can affect the entire river downstream.
The headwaters of this stream are located in the mountain glaciers.
Protecting the headwaters is crucial for maintaining clean water supplies.
They camped near the headwaters, where the water was crystal clear.