Definition

1. Proper noun:
   • A system of hills in Britain: The Pennine Chain is a major upland area, often described as the "backbone of England," extending from the Scottish border in the north to the valley of the River Trent in the south. It forms a significant watershed, meaning its high ground separates and gives rise to the headwaters of many rivers flowing to the east and west coasts of England.

Usage Examples

• Proper noun:
  • The Pennine Chain is a popular destination for hikers and walkers.
  • Many rivers in northern England originate in the Pennine Chain.
  • The Pennine Way is a long-distance footpath that follows much of the Pennine Chain.

Advanced Usage

• "The backbone of England": A common metaphorical description for the Pennine Chain, emphasizing its central, north-south orientation and its perceived role as a geographical spine.
  • Geographers often refer to the Pennine Chain as the backbone of England.

Variants and Related Words

• The Pennines: This is the more common, shortened name for the Pennine Chain.
  • We spent a week walking in the Pennines.
• Pennine Way: The famous long-distance national trail that runs along the range.

Synonyms

• The Pennines: The primary synonym.
• Pennine Hills: A less common variant.

Related Phrases

• Pennine watershed: Refers specifically to the ridge's role in dividing river systems.
  • The Pennine watershed determines whether rivers flow to the North Sea or the Irish Sea.

Noun

1. a system of hills in Britain that extend from the Scottish border in the north to the Trent River in the south; forms the watershed for English rivers