wilderness area

noun

variants often Wilderness Area
: an often large tract of public land maintained essentially in its natural state and protected against introduction of intrusive artifacts (such as roads and buildings)

Examples of wilderness area in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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Because of the mine’s location — at the headwaters of the BWCA — any potential pollution or acid mine drainage would likely flow into the wilderness area, Voyageurs National Park, and Canada’s Quetico Provincial Park. Alex Robinson, Outdoor Life, 15 Jan. 2026 Those who associate wide-open wilderness areas with the Western United States likely haven’t been to Everglades National Park. Evie Carrick, Travel + Leisure, 11 Jan. 2026 One of his major victories was passage of the Colorado Wilderness Act of 1993, which designated or expanded 19 wilderness areas. Dave Marston, Denver Post, 6 Jan. 2026 Despite eight search operations involving helicopters, drones, and more than 500 volunteer hours, Sands’ remains were not found until June 24, 2023, by hikers in the wilderness area. James Ward, USA Today, 30 Dec. 2025 See All Example Sentences for wilderness area

Word History

First Known Use

1928, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of wilderness area was in 1928

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Cite this Entry

“Wilderness area.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/wilderness%20area. Accessed 25 Jan. 2026.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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