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

They say local tribes and numerous Californians depend on the area’s aquifers — which flow into the Fall River and beyond — for clean drinking water and renowned fisheries.

From Los Angeles Times

California created an orchard for the world in large part by tapping into prehistoric aquifers that underlay the Central Valley.

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

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