Definition

Proper noun 1. A major European river: The Meuse River is a significant waterway in Western Europe, originating in France and flowing through Belgium and the Netherlands before emptying into the North Sea. 2. A World War I military operation: The Meuse River was the name of a major American offensive operation in the final months of World War I in 1918.

Usage Examples

• As a geographical feature:
  • The Meuse River forms a natural border in parts of Europe.
  • Several historic cities are located along the banks of the Meuse River.
• As a historical military operation:
  • The Meuse River offensive was a critical push by the American Expeditionary Forces.
  • Pershing's strategy during the Meuse River operation involved rapid advancement.

Advanced Usage

• "The Meuse River offensive": This specific phrase refers to the military campaign, also known as the Meuse-Argonne Offensive, which was part of the larger Hundred Days Offensive that led to the end of World War I.
  • The Meuse River offensive is studied for its scale and impact on the war's conclusion.

Variants and Related Words

• Meuse (noun): A common shortened form for the Meuse River.
  • The valley of the Meuse is very picturesque.
• Meuse-Argonne (proper noun): The full name of the Allied offensive, combining the Meuse River and Argonne Forest regions.
  • The Meuse-Argonne American Cemetery is a solemn memorial site.

Synonyms

• Geographical Feature: Watercourse, waterway.
• Military Operation: Offensive, campaign, push.

Related Phrases

• "Crossing the Meuse": This can refer literally to traversing the river or, historically, to a tactical military objective.
  • The logistics of crossing the Meuse were challenging for the army.

Noun

1. an American operation in World War I (1918); American troops under Pershing drove back the German armies which were saved only by the armistice on November 11
2. a European river; flows into the North Sea