Definition of arroyo

The word "arroyo" originally comes from the Spanish language and refers to a dry riverbed or a dry watercourse. In Spanish, the term "arroyo" literally translates to "little stream" or "winding valley." The word "arroyo" has its roots in the Spanish language of the Middle Ages, specifically in the Old Spanish language which was spoken during the 9th to the 15th centuries. The word "arroyu" (in its Old Spanish form) is believed to have derived from the Arabic word "wādi" which refers to a valley with a seasonal stream that appears during the rainy season. This Arabic word was introduced to Spain during the Moorish conquests of the 8th century, and it became a significant part of the Spanish language, particularly in areas near the Mediterranean. As the Spanish explorers and conquerors migrated to the New World during the 16th century, they brought the word "arroyo" along with them. Today, the word "arroyo" is a common feature in the Spanish-speaking cultures of the Americas, particularly in the southwestern United States, where it's commonly used to describe the dry riverbeds carved out by the seasonal rains. In some cases, the term "arroyo" may also be used to refer to a small canyon or a shallow, narrow canyon with frequent flash floods.