Word
heath
US/ˈhiθ/
UK/hˈiːθ/
Definitions
01open land
C1 · Advanced Countable noun British English
n. a large area of open, wild land with sandy soil and low plants, but few trees.
n. a tract of open, uncultivated land characterized by poor, acidic soil and scrubby vegetation.
“We spent the afternoon walking across the windy heath near the coast.”
“The preservation of the lowland heath is vital for several rare bird species that nest exclusively in the dense gorse and heather.”
Teaching tip
This term is much more common in British English than American English, where 'scrubland' or 'moor' might be used depending on the geography.
Synonyms
02a type of plant
C2 · Proficiency Countable noun Science Technical
n. a small evergreen plant with tiny leaves and flowers that grows in wild, dry areas.
n. any of various low-growing evergreen shrubs of the family Ericaceae, particularly those in the genus Erica.
“The garden was filled with purple heath that bloomed even in the cold.”
“The botanist identified several varieties of alpine heath clinging to the rocky crevices above the tree line.”
Usage
In general conversation, 'heather' is the more common term for the plant; 'heath' is often reserved for technical or botanical contexts.
Synonyms
Real-World Examples
“Where he lives, in Hampstead, London, Cumberbatch is in touch with nature almost daily, primarily through swimming in the ponds on the heath.” “The short survey comes weeks after a devastating wildfire at Dunwich Heath and nearby RSPB Minsmere destroyed vital wildlife habitats, which could take years to recover.” Word family
NOUN
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.C1 AdvancedIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.7.0–8.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 5.0–5.595–113TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.945–990
- Frequency
- Frequent
- Level
- C1 · Advanced
- Updated
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