# headwaters

/ˈhɛdˌwɔtɝz/ (US) · /hˈɛdwɔːtəz/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/headwaters
Updated: 2026-10-14

## Definition

the small streams where a large river starts. You usually find them high up in hills or mountains.

For teachers: the streams and springs furthest upstream that join together to form a larger river system.

## Examples

- The headwaters of the river lie high in the mountains.
- Farmers upstream protect the headwaters to keep the town's drinking water clean all year.
- The expedition traced the headwaters through dense forest, mapping the small springs and streams that join to form the great river downstream.

## Usage notes

- Takes a plural verb even when referring to one river system.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.