Definition

Proper noun 1. A major mountain range in eastern North America: The Appalachians are a vast system of mountains in eastern North America, extending from the Canadian province of Newfoundland and Labrador in the north to central Alabama in the United States in the south. 2. A historic geographical and cultural region: The term also refers to the region defined by this mountain range, known for its distinct cultural heritage and history, which served as a significant barrier to early westward expansion in U.S. history.

Usage Examples

• Proper noun:
  • The Appalachians are older and more eroded than the Rocky Mountains.
  • Hiking the entire length of the Appalachians on the Appalachian Trail is a major challenge.
  • The early settlers found crossing the Appalachians difficult.

Advanced Usage

• "the Appalachian region": Refers to the broader cultural and geographic area associated with the mountain range.
  • Traditional music from the Appalachian region has influenced many genres.
• In a historical context: Often used to discuss early American history and expansion.
  • The Proclamation of 1763 prohibited settlement west of the Appalachians.

Variants and Related Words

• Appalachian (adjective): Of or relating to the Appalachian Mountains or the region.
  • Appalachian flora; Appalachian culture.
• Appalachia (proper noun): A cultural region in the eastern United States largely coinciding with the Appalachian Mountains, often associated with specific socioeconomic characteristics.
  • Efforts to boost the economy in Appalachia are ongoing.

Synonyms

• Appalachian Mountains: The full, formal name for the range.
• The Appalachian Chain: A less common synonym emphasizing the connected series of mountains.

Related Phrases

• "Appalachian Trail": A famous long-distance hiking trail that runs along the crest of the Appalachian Mountains.
  • He plans to thru-hike the Appalachian Trail next year.
• "Crossing the Appalachians": A phrase used historically to describe the movement of settlers and explorers.
  • Daniel Boone helped pioneer a route for crossing the Appalachians.

Noun

1. a mountain range in the eastern United States extending from Quebec to the Gulf of Mexico; a historic barrier to early westward expansion of the United States