bayou

word

Definition

A bayou is a slow-moving stream or small river, often found in flat, low-lying areas, especially in the southern United States. Bayous usually have muddy water and are surrounded by swamps or wetlands.

Usage & Nuances

"Bayou" is mainly used for waterways in the southern U.S., especially Louisiana. It is rarely used outside this context. When describing similar wetlands elsewhere, use words like "swamp" or "marsh" instead. The word is of French origin.

Example Sentences

We went fishing all afternoon on the bayou.

natural

The fog over the bayou made it look mysterious.

natural

Have you ever taken a canoe through a bayou?

natural

The alligator lives in the bayou.

basic

The boat moved slowly down the bayou.

basic

Many trees grow beside the bayou.

basic