1. a U-shaped bend in a river
Usage: geography
2. a crescent-shaped lake formed when a river changes course and cuts off a bend
Usage: geography
3. a U-shaped wooden collar that fits around an ox’s neck for pulling a yoke
Usage: farming; historical

Examples

• The river formed a dramatic oxbow as it wound through the valley.
• Over time, the oxbow was cut off from the main river channel.
• The oxbow lake provided habitat for many waterfowl species.
• Geologists studied how the oxbow developed over centuries.
• The farmer fitted the wooden oxbow around the ox’s neck.
• Old oxbows can be seen in aerial photographs of the floodplain.
• The oxbow created a natural swimming hole for local children.