# Mississippi

/ˌmɪsɪˈsɪpi/ (US) · CEFR B1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/mississippi
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Definition

a major river in the United States that flows from the north down to the Gulf of Mexico. It is also the name of a state in the southern part of the country.

For teachers: a major river in central North America, flowing south through the United States to the Gulf of Mexico; also a state in the southeastern United States. When referring to the river, it is typically preceded by the definite article.

## Examples

- The Mississippi River is very long and wide.
- Many famous stories by Mark Twain take place on the banks of the Mississippi.
- The Mississippi serves as a vital commercial artery for the United States, facilitating the transport of agricultural goods from the Midwest to international markets via the Gulf of Mexico.

## Usage notes

- When referring to the river, it is almost always used with the definite article ('the Mississippi'). When referring to the state, no article is used.

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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.