Great Dividing Range
Proper noun A major mountain range extending parallel to the eastern coast of Australia. It is the country's most significant mountain chain and forms a watershed dividing the drainage basins of rivers flowing eastward to the Pacific Ocean from those flowing westward into the interior.
The term "Great Dividing Range" is used as a singular, proper noun to refer to this specific geographical feature. * The Great Dividing Range influences Australia's climate by blocking moisture-laden winds from the Pacific. * Many of Australia's national parks are located within the Great Dividing Range. * Hiking the length of the Great Dividing Range is a formidable challenge.
- The range is sometimes referred to simply as "the Divide" in geographical or meteorological contexts discussing watersheds.
- The weather patterns differ dramatically on either side of the Divide.
- Eastern Highlands: An alternative, more descriptive name for the same mountain system, emphasizing its location and elevated nature.
- The Divide: A common shorthand, especially when discussing its role as a continental watershed.
- Mountain chain
- Cordillera (a broader term for an extensive chain of mountains)
As a proper noun, "Great Dividing Range" has only one primary meaning: the specific Australian mountain range. It is not used idiomatically or with other definitions.
- a mountain range running along the eastern coast of Australia