Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

endorheic

Adjective

/ˌɛn.dɔːˈrɪ.ɪk/

Definition

Relating to a drainage basin that does not drain to the ocean.

Examples

The Caspian Sea is an example of an endorheic basin, as it has no outlet to the sea.
Many deserts contain endorheic rivers that only flow during seasonal rains, collecting in lakes that dry up in the heat.
The endorheic nature of the Great Basin in the United States leads to unique ecological conditions.

Meaning

The term ‘endorheic’ describes a specific type of hydrological system that is completely contained within a landmass, where water does not flow out to oceans or seas but instead evaporates or infiltrates the ground.