Watershed Definition & Meaning | Britannica Dictionary (original) (raw)

1

:

a time when an important change happens

— usually singular

• The protests mark a watershed [=_turning point_] in the history of the country.

— often used before another noun

• a watershed moment/year/event

2

a

:

a line of hills or mountains from which rivers drain

:

a ridge between two rivers

b

chiefly US

:

the area of land that includes a particular river or lake and all the rivers, streams, etc., that flow into it

• the Connecticut River watershed

3

British

:

the time of day after which television programs not appropriate for children may be broadcast

• The show will not air until after the nine o'clock watershed.