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

/ ăk′wə-fər /

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

County’s Hansen Spreading Grounds, where it will flow into basins and percolate into the groundwater aquifer for storage.

From Los Angeles Times

She is continuing to promote other projects, including a proposal to convert two old gravel quarry pits into giant reservoirs where storm runoff could be routed to recharge the aquifer and reduce flood dangers downstream.

From Los Angeles Times

Decades ago, chemicals from manufacturing plants seeped into the groundwater in the San Fernando Valley, contaminating the aquifer.

From Los Angeles Times

“This is a key step towards returning the aquifer to use as a drinking water source for the people of Los Angeles,” Guzman said.

From Los Angeles Times

State officials cited deficiencies in local groundwater management plans including chronic declines in aquifer levels that they estimate could put more than 550 domestic wells at risk of going dry during drought.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• water level