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Definition of headwater

headwater

/ˈhɛdˌwɔːtər/
head · wa · ter
Plural:headwaters
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headwater Lexical Profile

headwater Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A tributary stream of a river close to or forming part of its source (usually used in the plural, 'headwaters').

Example

"The expedition hiked high into the mountains to map the remote headwaters of the Amazon River."

2

The water upstream of a hydraulic structure, such as a dam, lock, or hydroelectric plant.

Example

"Heavy spring snowmelt caused the headwater behind the dam to rise to near-record levels."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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Word Nuance & Usage

Usually used in the plural form ('headwaters') when referring to the network of upper streams that feed a river, though the singular form is frequently used as an attributive modifier before another noun (e.g., 'headwater streams').

• Rhymes for headwater

• Nearby Words

headstrong
headteacher
headwaiter
headwater
headwaters
headway
headwear

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in the 16th century as a compound of the Old English words 'heafod' (head, top, or source) and 'wæter' (water).

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Headwater. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/headwater
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