Definition

Noun: A tidewater stream is a stream or small river in which the effects of the tide, such as changes in water level and direction of flow, are noticeable far upstream from its mouth. This means the stream is influenced by the ocean's tides for a significant portion of its length.

Usage

The term is used to describe a specific type of coastal watercourse. It is a compound noun, so it is typically used as a single unit to name this geographical feature. - The ecologists studied the unique ecosystem of the tidewater stream. - We canoed up the tidewater stream until the current reversed with the incoming tide.

Advanced Usage

• The concept is important in hydrology and ecology, as the mixing of fresh and salt water in a tidewater stream creates a brackish environment that supports distinct plant and animal life.
• The point where the tidal influence ends is called the "tidal limit" or "head of tide."

Variants and Related Words

• Tidal creek: A very similar term, often used interchangeably, though a creek is sometimes considered smaller than a stream.
• Tidal river: A larger watercourse affected by tides.
• Estuary: The wider tidal mouth of a river where it meets the sea, which may contain one or more tidewater streams.

Synonyms

• Tidal creek
• Tidal stream (Note: This can be ambiguous as it also refers to tidal currents in the ocean.)

Antonyms

• Inland stream: A stream with no tidal influence.
• Upland stream: A stream originating in and flowing through highland areas, unaffected by tides.

Noun

1. a stream in which the effects of the tide extend far upstream