niagara falls
niagara falls Lexical Profile
• noun
North American A massive and renowned group of three waterfalls spanning the international border between the Canadian province of Ontario and the US state of New York, situated on the Niagara River.
"Millions of tourists visit North America each year to witness the immense power and beauty of Niagara Falls."
North American The name of two twin cities situated adjacent to the famous waterfalls, with one located in Niagara County, New York, USA, and the other in the Golden Horseshoe region of Ontario, Canada.
"After viewing the cascading water, the family spent the evening exploring the tourist attractions and restaurants in Niagara Falls."
Word Nuance & Usage
The term is used interchangeably to refer to the famous natural waterfalls themselves as well as the two distinct twin cities situated immediately adjacent to them in both Canada and the United States.
Word Origin & Etymology
Derived from the Iroquoian word 'Onguiaahra', which referred to the strait or the people living around the river, combined with the English word 'falls' referring to the cascades.