watershed

[doncaster]

Can anyone tell me why they call programmes after 9pm the WATERSHED. What does this actually mean?

[dannydingbat]

If I remember correctly, the watershed is a geographical/meteorological phenomenon which involves hills, clouds and the prepondence of rain to fall on the far side of the hill over which the cloud passes (I never did pay much attention at school).

As its all about build up of vapour which then gushes as rain, the term has been adoped to indicate the holding of programmes with adult content until 9pm when they can all be shown so that parents know when their kids should not be watching.

[jno]

a watershed is roughly the highest point on a mountain or ridge: rain falling on one side goes off to the sea in one direction, rain on the other side goes off in the opposite direction. So it has come to mean 'a fundamental change' or divide. After 9pm, the floodgates are opened and people can swear...