Waterfall vs. Cataract — What's the Difference?

Waterfalls are natural features found in various landscapes, where water flows over a vertical drop or a series of drops in the course of a stream or river. Cataracts are similar but denote specifically large, powerful waterfalls and can often be wider and possess a greater volume of water than typical waterfalls. While both terms describe a feature where water descends over a precipice, the word "cataract" typically conveys a greater sense of scale and power.

The etymology of "waterfall" is quite straightforward, combining "water" and "fall" to describe the action of the feature. "Cataract," on the other hand, originates from the Latin word "cataracta," meaning "waterfall" or "portcullis," which perhaps suggests something more monumental or formidable. It also has a dual meaning in medicine, referring to the clouding of the lens in the eye, which is unrelated to the geological feature.

In literature and speech, "waterfall" is commonly used to describe any cascading flow of water over a rock formation, regardless of size. "Cataract," in its geographical sense, is less commonly used in casual conversation and is more often reserved for descriptions of very large, significant waterfalls such as those found on major rivers or in large national parks.

Although both waterfalls and cataracts can be tourist attractions, the term "cataract" might be used in a context that emphasizes the grandeur or intensity of the waterfall, such as in travel brochures or nature documentaries. In contrast, "waterfall" is a more general term and doesn't inherently suggest the same magnitude.

When speaking of waterfalls and cataracts, one might consider the environment in which they are found. Waterfalls are common in hilly or mountainous areas and can vary greatly in height and volume. Cataracts are often associated with vast, powerful rivers and can influence the ecology and local climate due to the mist and spray they generate.