First Known Use: 1576
Dictionary
1meander
noun me·an·der \mē-ˈan-dər\
Definition of MEANDER
1
: a winding path or course; especially : labyrinth
2
: a turn or winding of a stream
— me·an·drous \-drəs\ adjective
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Origin of MEANDER
Latin maeander, from Greek maiandros, from Maiandros (now Menderes), river in Asia Minor
Other Geology Terms
Rhymes with MEANDER
2meander
verb
: to have a lot of curves instead of going in a straight or direct line : to follow a winding course
: to walk slowly without a specific goal, purpose, or direction
: to go from one topic to another without any clear direction
meanderedmeander·ing \-d(ə-)riŋ\
Full Definition of MEANDER
intransitive verb
1
: to follow a winding or intricate course
2
: to wander aimlessly or casually without urgent destination : ramble
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First Known Use of MEANDER
circa 1612
Related to MEANDER
Synonym Discussion of MEANDER
wander, roam, ramble, rove, traipse, meander mean to go about from place to place usually without a plan or definite purpose. wander implies an absence of or an indifference to a fixed course <fond of wandering about the square just watching the people>. roam suggests wandering about freely and often far afield <liked to roam through the woods>. ramble stresses carelessness and indifference to one's course or objective <the speaker rambled on without ever coming to the point>. rove suggests vigorous and sometimes purposeful roaming <armed brigands roved over the countryside>. traipse implies a course that is erratic but may sometimes be purposeful <traipsed all over town looking for the right dress>. meander implies a winding or intricate course suggestive of aimless or listless wandering <the river meanders for miles through rich farmland>.
MEANDER Defined for Kids
meander
verb me·an·der \mē-ˈan-dər\
me·an·deredme·an·der·ing
Definition of MEANDER for Kids
1
: to follow a winding course <A brook meanders through the fields.>
2
: to wander without a goal or purpose <He spends his days meandering around town.>
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