Catchment Basin (Noun)
Meaning
The entire geographical area drained by a river and its tributaries; an area characterized by all runoff being conveyed to the same outlet; "flood control in the Missouri basin".
Classification
Nouns denoting spatial position.
Examples
- The hydroelectric dam was constructed across the main river within the catchment basin to regulate the flow of water.
- Water from the entire catchment basin is eventually funneled into the massive man-made lake created by the dam.
- Engineers had to consider the effects of storm runoff throughout the catchment basin when designing the drainage system.
- Rural residents along the rivers in the catchment basin have become concerned about flooding in recent years.
- Urban development within a catchment basin requires careful planning to minimize the risk of flash floods.