riverbed

noun

riv·​er·​bed ˈri-vər-ˌbed How to pronounce riverbed (audio)
: the channel occupied by a river

Examples of riverbed in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Researchers were using high-resolution side-scan sonar to map a 2.5-mile stretch of the riverbed in Oshkosh, Wisconsin. Sarah Kuta, Smithsonian Magazine, 16 July 2025 In total, the researchers discovered more than 15,000 kilometers of these ancient riverbeds – some extending hundreds of kilometers in length. Rosie McCall, Discover Magazine, 14 July 2025 The boy’s body was found along a riverbed around 3:30 p.m., according to WTAE. Jennifer Rodriguez, Kansas City Star, 18 May 2025 Eric Eller likes to ride his dirt bikes through the canyons, dry riverbeds and rocky outcroppings of the Antelope Valley in the high desert north of Los Angeles. Susanne Rust, Los Angeles Times, 11 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for riverbed

Word History

First Known Use

1781, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of riverbed was in 1781

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Riverbed.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/riverbed. Accessed 29 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

riverbed

noun
riv·​er·​bed -ˌbed How to pronounce riverbed (audio)
: the channel occupied or once occupied by a river

More from Merriam-Webster on riverbed

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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