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sediment

noun

/ˈsɛd ə mənt/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of sediment

The collection of solid particles that settle at the bottom of a body of water or accumulate on the surface of the Earth.
"The river carried a heavy load of sediment downstream after the heavy rainfall."

Detailed meaning of sediment

It consists of various materials such as sand, silt, clay, rocks, and organic matter that have been eroded, weathered, or transported by wind, water, or ice over time. Sediment plays a crucial role in shaping the Earth's landscape and ecosystems. It can be found in rivers, lakes, oceans, and even in desert regions. Sedimentation occurs when the velocity of the transporting medium decreases, allowing the particles to settle and form layers over time. These layers of sediment hold valuable information about geological processes, environmental conditions, and the history of the Earth, making sediment an essential tool for scientific research, including studying past climates, reconstructing ancient environments, and identifying fossil remains. Furthermore, sediment serves as a habitat for various organisms, supporting diverse aquatic ecosystems. It also has economic importance as a source of valuable minerals, construction materials, and energy resources like coal and oil. Overall, sediment is a significant component of Earth's geology and plays a vital role in the planet's past, present, and future.

Example sentences containing sediment

1. Archaeologists sifted through the sediment to uncover ancient artifacts.
2. The sedimentary rock formation displayed distinct layers of sediment.
3. The sediment settled at the bottom of the lake, creating a muddy layer.
4. The sediment in the soil provided essential nutrients for plant growth.
5. Erosion of the coastline resulted in the deposition of sediment along the beach.
6. The geologist studied the sediment samples to determine the age of the rock formation.

History and etymology of sediment

The noun 'sediment' finds its etymological origins in the Latin word 'sedimentum,' which was derived from the verb 'sedere,' meaning 'to sit' or 'to settle.' In ancient Rome, 'sedimentum' was used to describe particles or matter that had settled at the bottom of a container, particularly in the context of liquids like water or wine. This term aptly captured the idea of solid particles settling down and accumulating over time. As the Latin language influenced the development of Old French, the word 'sediment' evolved into 'sediment' with a similar meaning. This evolution continued into Middle English, and eventually, the term 'sediment' became established in modern English. Hence, the etymology of 'sediment' reflects its essence as the collection of solid particles that settle at the bottom of a body of water or accumulate on the surface of the earth, echoing its historical association with settling and sitting.

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Further usage examples of sediment

1. Fish species rely on the sediment as a hiding place and a source of food.
2. The construction site had to be cleared of sediment before building could commence.
3. The turbidity of the water increased due to the high sediment concentration.
4. The sedimentary layers revealed a rich history of the area's geological evolution.
5. After heavy rain, a layer of sediment covered the riverbank.
6. The archaeologists found ancient sediment in the cave.
7. Sediment buildup in the pipes caused a plumbing issue.
8. The sediment in the pond made the water murky.
9. The sedimentary rock formation was millions of years old.
10. A river's sediment can reveal its geological history.
11. The sediment settled in layers over centuries.
12. The sediment on the ocean floor holds many secrets.
13. Sediment can be a source of valuable minerals.
14. The sedimentary layers told a story of the past.
15. Sediment analysis helps study environmental changes.
16. Fishermen avoid areas with high sediment content.
17. A sediment trap collected particles from the stream.
18. Sediment can impact aquatic ecosystems.
19. Sediment erosion can lead to land degradation.
20. Sediment deposits indicate the river's health.
21. Sediment removal improves water quality.
22. Scientists study sediment to date ancient events.
23. Sediment can bury archaeological treasures.
24. Sediment samples provided clues to Earth's history.