noun Uncommon

Thames

tehmz

Thames (noun) means the major river flowing through southern England, including London, on its way to the North Sea. Example: “They took a boat trip down the Thames past the Houses of Parliament.”

noun

The major river flowing through southern England, including London, on its way to the North Sea.

"They took a boat trip down the Thames past the Houses of Parliament."

"The Thames freezes over only in the harshest winters."

How to use Thames

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishLondon's famous river.

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They took a boat trip down the _____ past the Houses of Parliament.

Etymology

From Old English Temes, ultimately from an ancient Celtic river-name meaning roughly "dark water."

Origin: Old English

Rhymes for Thames

Ames James Eames Games Soames

See all rhymes for Thames →

Frequently asked questions

What does “Thames” mean?

The word “Thames” means the major river flowing through southern England, including London, on its way to the North Sea. In plain terms, london's famous river.

How do you pronounce “Thames”?

“Thames” is pronounced tehmz (/tɛmz/ in IPA).

How do you use “Thames” in a sentence?

Here is “Thames” used in a sentence: “They took a boat trip down the Thames past the Houses of Parliament.”

What part of speech is “Thames”?

“Thames” is a noun.

Where does the word “Thames” come from?

The word “Thames” comes from Old English. From Old English Temes, ultimately from an ancient Celtic river-name meaning roughly "dark water.".

Is “Thames” a common word?

“Thames” is an uncommon word in modern English.

Which cities and towns does the River Thames flow through?

The Thames flows through southern England, passing through towns such as Oxford and Reading before reaching London, the largest city on its banks. It continues past London toward the North Sea.

Where does the River Thames meet the sea?

The Thames flows out to the North Sea through the Thames Estuary on England's eastern coast. This stretch near the estuary is tidal, meaning its water level rises and falls with the sea.

Is the River Thames tidal?

Yes, the lower Thames, including the section through central London, is tidal because it is close enough to the North Sea for tides to push seawater upstream. Further inland, away from London, the river is non-tidal.

What is the difference between "the Thames" and "the River Thames"?

Both refer to the same river; "the River Thames" is the fuller, more formal form, while "the Thames" is the shorter name commonly used once the river has already been identified. English convention places "the" before river names, so "Thames" is never used without an article.