Definition

Noun: A distributary is a branch of a river that flows away from the main stream and does not rejoin it. It is typically found in river deltas, where the main channel splits into multiple smaller channels that carry water and sediment into a lake, sea, or ocean.

Examples of Usage

• Noun:
  • The Mississippi River Delta has several important distributaries, including the Atchafalaya River.
  • Sediment is deposited along the banks of the distributary, helping to build the delta.
  • Unlike a tributary, which flows into a larger river, a distributary flows away from it.

Advanced Usage

• Geographical Context: The term is primarily used in physical geography, geology, and hydrology to describe the specific flow patterns in deltaic systems.
  • The study focused on how the distributary channels evolve during flood seasons.

Variants and Related Words

• Distribute (verb): To give out or spread something. While related etymologically, this is a separate word with a broader meaning.
  • The company will distribute the supplies.
• Distribution (noun): The act of distributing or the way something is spread out.
  • The map shows the population distribution.

Synonyms

• Channel: A length of water wider than a strait, joining two larger areas of water, especially seas. (Less specific; can refer to any watercourse.)
• Outlet: A pipe or hole through which water or gas may escape. (More general; not specific to river systems.)
• Effluent stream: (Technical) A stream that flows out of a body of water. (This is a more technical synonym in hydrology.)

Antonyms

• Tributary (noun): A river or stream flowing into a larger river or lake.
  • The Missouri River is a major tributary of the Mississippi.

Noun

1. a branch of a river that flows away from the main stream and does not rejoin it