Prairie
/ˈprɛəri/
Meaning & Definition
noun
A large area of flat or gently rolling grassland, especially in North America.
The vast prairie stretched for miles, covered in wildflowers.
Grassland characterized by a temperate climate, moderate to low rainfall, and few trees.
During the summer, the prairie becomes a vibrant sea of green.
A region in which such grasslands are predominant.
The American Midwest is known for its expansive prairies.
An ecosystem in which grass dominates the landscape and supports a variety of wildlife.
Conservation efforts are crucial to protect the biodiversity of the prairie ecosystem.
Etymology
From the French word 'prairie', meaning 'meadow'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
prairie dog
A small burrowing rodent native to North America, known for its vocalizations.
prairie fire
A fire that occurs in a prairie ecosystem, often started by natural causes or human activity.
Related Words
grassland
A large open area where grass is the main vegetation.
biome
A large ecological area on the Earth's surface, with flora and fauna adapting to their environment.
savanna
A mixed grassland ecosystem characterized by trees that are sufficiently small or widely spaced apart.
Slang Meanings
A vast open space.
We're heading out to the prairie for some camping this weekend!