WordGarden.iowaterhole
Pronunciation
UK
- /wˈɔːtəhˌəʊl/
US
- /wˈɔːtərhˌoʊl/
Meanings
Noun
a natural pool or hollow where water collects, often used by animals for drinking
Beyond the definition
Imagine the African savanna: hot, dry, and wide open. In a place like that, a waterhole is not just a muddy pool; it can mean survival. It is where animals come to drink, gather, and sometimes fight over space. In dry regions, it is a key source of water and a busy center of activity. The word can also be used in a figurative way. A popular local bar or hangout might be called a "waterhole" because people keep coming back to meet there. Think of lions resting nearby, elephants splashing in the shallows, or zebras stepping forward carefully for a drink. It is the kind of place where the drama of nature plays out.
A waterhole is a small pool of water that forms naturally in an area with limited rainfall, particularly in grasslands, savannas, and deserts. For animals living in these environments, it's often the only reliable source of drinking water for miles around. This makes waterholes incredibly important – they become hubs of activity, attracting all sorts of creatures from tiny birds to massive elephants.
Historically, "waterhole" was a practical term used by explorers and settlers to describe essential watering places for livestock in Australia and Africa. Today, it's still used literally when discussing wildlife habitats. However, the word has also taken on a figurative meaning: any place where people congregate regularly can be called a waterhole. A lively bar with a loyal clientele might be described as "the local waterhole," suggesting it's a central gathering spot for socializing and conversation.
Think of a bustling saloon in an old Western movie – that's a human "waterhole." The connection lies in the idea of a shared resource attracting individuals together. Whether it's a life-saving oasis for wildlife or a popular hangout for people, a waterhole represents a vital gathering point – a place where life converges and stories unfold.
Examples
- 1
Wild animals
By late afternoon, zebras were already waiting at the waterhole.
- 2
Drought
After weeks without rain, several waterholes had dried up.
- 3
Safari safety
The guide told us to keep our voices down near the waterhole after dark.
See also
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- waterhole