aquifer

[ak-wuh-fer]

noun

1. any geological formation containing or conducting groundwater, especially one that supplies the water for wells, springs, etc.

aquifer

/ ˈækwɪfə /

noun

1. a porous deposit of rock, such as a sandstone, containing water that can be used to supply wells

aquifer

1. An underground layer of permeable rock, sediment (usually sand or gravel), or soil that yields water. The pore spaces in aquifers are filled with water and are interconnected, so that water flows through them. Sandstones, unconsolidated gravels, and porous limestones make the best aquifers. They can range from a few square kilometers to thousands of square kilometers in size.

Word History and Origins

Origin of aquifer¹

First recorded in 1900–05; probably from French aquifère (adjective); aqui-, -fer

Example Sentences

The water depletion from over-pumping aquifers is causing land to sink in the provinces of Tehran and Isfahan.

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In oxygen-poor settings such as marine sediments, wetlands, and underground aquifers, certain microbes produce hydrogen sulfide, a foul-smelling and highly toxic gas.

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Sourced from a deep pressured aquifer in New Zealand, it’s “smooth and easy to swallow,” Alexander said.

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If Los Angeles reduced its pumping, the valley’s aquifer levels would rise and meadows could recover, Boulton said.

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The company has promised to construct a giant wastewater recycling facility, to be used in its cooling system, that would help reduce demand on the Memphis aquifer.

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Related Words

• water level