Definition

A branch of a river that flows away from the main stream.

Example

The distributary of the river created new wetlands as it spread out.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of a distributary in a river system?

Yeah, I think it’s like a branch that flows away from the main stream, right?

Exactly! It’s interesting how rivers can spread out like that.

For sure, it’s amazing to see how nature works in such complex ways.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Distributary → It is formed from "dis-" (meaning apart) and "tribuere" (meaning to assign or distribute). The word refers to a stream or river that branches off from a main river, thus distributing its flow apart from the main channel.

Memory Tip

Think of a river that 'assigns' its water 'apart' from the main flow — that's what a distributary does.

Visually Confused Words