basin

ba-sin · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    A bowl-shaped container used for holding liquids or washing.

  2. 2.

    A washbasin or sink, especially in a bathroom.

  3. 3.

    [geography]A natural depression in the earth's surface containing water.

  4. 4.

    [geography]The area of land drained by a river and its tributaries.

  5. 5.

    A dock or harbor where ships are moored.

Forms

plural: basins

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    river basin — The area drained by a river system.
  • •
    ocean basin — The floor of an ocean.
  • •
    sedimentary basin — A geological depression where sediments accumulate.
  • •
    pudding basin — A bowl used for making puddings (British).

Related words

See also: bowl, sink, valley, watershed
Synonyms: bowl, sink, washbasin, watershed

Etymology

From Old French bacin ("basin, bowl"), from Vulgar Latin baccinum, possibly of Gaulish origin.