watershed

UK: ˈwɔːtəʃed | US: ˈwɔːtərʃed

Definition

  1. n. 1. A ridge or area of high land separating two river systems.

  2. n. 2. A turning point or critical moment in history or development.

  3. n. 3. (Hydrology) The area of land draining into a river or reservoir.

Structure
water <liquid H₂O>shed <divide or separate>
Etymology

The word "watershed" originated in the early 19th century, combining "water" (from Old English wæter) and "shed" (from Old English scēadan, meaning "to divide"). The term initially described a geographical divide where water flows into different river systems. Over time, it metaphorically expanded to signify pivotal moments or boundaries in non-physical contexts (e.g., "a watershed event"). The logic mirrors how physical divides redirect flows, just as historical events redirect outcomes.

Examples

  1. The Rocky Mountains form a major watershed in North America.

  2. The invention of the internet marked a watershed in communication.

  3. Protecting forested watersheds ensures clean drinking water.

  4. Her speech was a watershed moment for the civil rights movement.

  5. The treaty represented a watershed in diplomatic relations.