ENGLISH
REFERENCE

yukon

n. uncountable
C2 Proficiency US //ˈjuˌkɑn// yukon

n. a large, wild area in northwest Canada known for its cold weather and mountains. It is famous for the gold rush that happened there over a hundred years ago.

n. a federal territory in northwest Canada, bordered by Alaska to the west and British Columbia to the south. When used with 'the', it refers to the Yukon River, which flows through the territory into the Bering Sea.


SIMPLE

Many people moved to the Yukon to search for gold.

CONTEXTUAL

The Yukon is sparsely populated, with most of its residents living in the capital city of Whitehorse.

COMPLEX

The harsh climate of the Yukon presents significant logistical challenges for mining operations, yet the region remains a primary focus for mineral exploration due to its rich geological deposits.

Origin

From Gwich'in ųųg han, contraction of chųų gąįį han (“white water river”). See Wikipedia's name section for details.

Usage

Typically used without an article when referring to the territory ('in Yukon'), though 'the Yukon' is common in historical and informal contexts.

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