Potomac

Potomac commonly refers to the Potomac River, a major watercourse on the East Coast of the United States, and to several communities named Potomac in the region. The term is associated with both natural features and human settlements that lie within the river’s watershed.

Potomac River: The river runs about 383 miles (616 kilometers) from its headwaters in the Allegheny Mountains of West Virginia to its mouth at the Chesapeake Bay. It forms part of the boundary between Maryland and Virginia for much of its lower course and drains parts of West Virginia, Maryland, and Virginia, with the District of Columbia located along its banks. Major tributaries include the Shenandoah River and the Monocacy River. The river has supported transportation, commerce, and water supply since colonial times and remains a source of drinking water for the Washington metropolitan area. It also hosts recreational activities and diverse aquatic life.

Other uses: In addition to the river, the name Potomac designates several communities, including Potomac in Montgomery County, Maryland; Potomac in Virginia; and Potomac Falls, Virginia. The Potomac River watershed contains parks and historic sites along its banks, such as the C&O Canal National Historical Park and Great Falls Park, reflecting the region’s natural and cultural heritage.

Etymology: The name Potomac is derived from a Native American word used by Algonquian-speaking peoples in the region.