English Reference
noun

kansas

n.
US /ˈkænzəs/ kan·sas

  1. 01 B1 Intermediate

    a state in the central United States known for growing wheat and its flat plains.

    a state located in the Midwestern United States, bordered by Nebraska, Missouri, Oklahoma, and Colorado.

    Simple

    Many people drive through Kansas when they travel across the United States.

    In context

    The economy of Kansas is heavily dependent on its agricultural output, particularly its status as a leading producer of wheat and sunflowers.

  2. 02 C1 Advanced American English

    a river in the northeastern part of the state of Kansas.

    a river in northeastern Kansas, also known as the Kaw, which is a major tributary of the Missouri River.

    Simple

    The city of Topeka was built along the banks of the Kansas.

    In context

    Environmental groups have worked for decades to improve the water quality of the Kansas, which serves as a vital resource for the region.

    kaw river
  3. 03 B2 Upper Intermediate American EnglishInformal Sport

    a short way to say the University of Kansas.

    a common ellipsis referring to the University of Kansas, particularly in the context of collegiate sports.

    Simple

    He is a huge fan of Kansas and never misses a basketball game.

    In context

    After winning the national championship, Kansas saw a significant increase in undergraduate applications from across the country.

    KU

From a Siouan ethnonym cognate to Kansa; related to Arkansas, which see for more information.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Origin sio -
Level B1 · Intermediate
Frequency Common
Updated