watershed
- 01 C1 Advanced
n.the time of day (usually 9:00 PM) after which TV channels can show programs for adults.
n.the time limit after which television broadcasters may air content unsuitable for children, such as violence or profanity.
Simple“The documentary was shown after the watershed because it contained strong language.”
In context“Broadcasters must ensure that any material featuring graphic violence is scheduled well after the nine o'clock watershed to protect younger viewers.”
Usageusually used with the definite article 'the'
Synonyms - 02 C2 Proficiency
n.an area of land where all the water flows into the same river or lake.
n.the entire geographical area that drains into a particular river, lake, or reservoir.
Simple“Pollution in the upper watershed can affect the water quality of the entire river.”
In context“The local government implemented new zoning laws to protect the watershed from industrial runoff that threatened the city's primary reservoir.”
- 03 C2 Proficiency
n.a line of high land that separates two different river systems.
n.the topographical ridge or line of high ground that separates two adjacent drainage basins.
Simple“The hikers stood on the watershed, where rain on one side flowed east and on the other side flowed west.”
In context“The continental watershed determines the ultimate destination of snowmelt, directing it toward either the Atlantic or the Pacific Ocean.”
- 04 C1 Advanced
adj.describing an event that is extremely important and changes everything that follows.
adj.functioning as a modifier to describe an event or period that serves as a significant turning point.
Simple“The court's watershed decision changed the law for everyone in the country.”
In context“The treaty was a watershed event in international diplomacy, ending decades of border disputes between the two neighbouring powers.”
Usagealways used before a noun
SynonymsAntonyms
“His death became a watershed moment in rap history.”
“But the year 1923 has been recognized as a watershed for sardine fishing in the region.”
From water + shed. A calque of German Wasserscheide.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.