A reach is a segment of a stream, river, or arm of the sea,[citation needed] usually suggesting a straight, level, uninterrupted stretch.
A reach may be an expanse, or widening, of a stream or river channel.
This commonly occurs after the river or stream is dammed.
The term "reach" can also refer to a level stretch, as between river rapids or locks in a canal.
[citation needed] The word may also be used more generally to refer to any extended portion or stretch of land or water, or even metaphorically.