Definition

A U-shaped curve or bend in a river, or a piece of wood that fits around an ox's neck to hold a yoke.

Example

The river formed an oxbow as it twisted through the valley.

Conversation

Have you ever seen the oxbow lake near the park?

Yeah, it's really beautiful there, especially at sunset.

I love how the oxbow shapes the landscape around it.

Absolutely, it makes for great photos and a nice spot to relax.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Oxbow → The word is formed from "ox" (from Old English "oxa", meaning a male bovine) and "bow" (from Old English "boga", meaning a bend or curve). An oxbow refers to a bend in a river that resembles the shape of an ox's yoke, which is a curved device used to harness oxen.

Memory Tip

Picture the shape of an ox's yoke, which is curved like a bend in a river — that's why an oxbow is a curved section of a river.

Visually Confused Words