hydrology
Americannoun
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the science dealing with the occurrence, circulation, distribution, and properties of the waters of the earth and its atmosphere.
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hydrogeology; geohydrology.
noun
Other Word Forms
Etymology
Origin of hydrology
Explanation
Hydrology is the science that has to do with water on our planet and in the atmosphere, including how water moves, where it exists, and its specific properties. Hydrology is a branch of geology, the study of the earth that focuses specifically on the planet's water systems. This scientific specialization involves analysis of our water's quantity, quality, and location based on the water cycle. Scientists who study hydrology are known as hydrologists, and their work includes testing water samples for contamination, predicting floods and droughts, and making sure our drinking water is clean. The word hydrology comes from the Greek roots hydro-, meaning "water," and -logy, meaning "study of."
Vocabulary lists containing hydrology
Earth Science - Middle School
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The Water Cycle - Middle School and High School
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Earth Science - High School
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Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
In the blistering heat of 2026, where climate records are tumbling all over the world, the river is under attack on two fronts, said David Kreamer, a hydrology professor at the University of Las Vegas.
From Barron's ● Aug. 27, 2026
It is important to note, though, that many other factors affect the risk of flooding including land use, groundwater extraction, local hydrology and preceding conditions.
From BBC ● Feb. 18, 2026
"The data instead support a more modest and spatially variable response influenced by hydrology, browsing, and local site conditions."
From Science Daily ● Feb. 12, 2026
It’s possible, Larson said, “that the hydrology is just getting so bad right now that people are getting really nervous, and that’ll push people to the table as they get worried.”
From Los Angeles Times ● Jan. 22, 2026
This is evidenced by the inclusion of geologic discussions in most textbooks of hydrology, and in the reports of the Hydrographic Branch of the U. S. Geological Survey.
From The Economic Aspect of Geology by C. K. (Charles Kenneth) Leith
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
