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Silt Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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silt

[sɪlt ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

soil deposit

Fine sand, clay, or other material carried by running water and deposited as a sediment, especially in a channel or harbor.

Synonyms

debris, mud, sediment.

Examples of usage

  • Silt can accumulate at the bottom of rivers and lakes.
  • The harbor needed to be dredged to remove the silt buildup.
Context #2 | Verb

to cover with silt

To become filled or choked up with silt.

Synonyms

block, clog, obstruct.

Examples of usage

  • The river silted up after the heavy rain.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Environment

  • Silt plays a crucial role in wetlands, helping to filter water and provide nutrients for plants.
  • When rivers flood, they deposit silt on land, enriching the soil, which is vital for agriculture.
  • Excess silt from erosion can harm aquatic habitats by altering water quality and decreasing light penetration.

Geology

  • Geologists categorize silt as a sediment type with particle sizes between 0.002 mm and 0.06 mm.
  • Siltstones are compacted sedimentary rocks primarily made of silt, showcasing its significance in geology.
  • The study of silt helps in understanding past environments, revealing clues about historical climates.

Agriculture

  • Soils rich in silt are often ideal for farming because they retain moisture and nutrients effectively.
  • Farmers must manage silt carefully, as excessive erosion can lead to loss of nutrient-rich topsoil.
  • Crop rotation and cover crops are strategies used to prevent silt from washing away during heavy rains.

Water Management

  • Silt buildup in reservoirs can reduce water storage capacity and requires regular maintenance.
  • Implementing silt fences in construction sites helps prevent runoff and preserves local ecosystems.
  • Stormwater management practices aim to control siltation in urban areas to protect waterways and habitats.

Origin of 'silt'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'silt' originates from the Old English term 'silt' or 'sylte', which means 'mud' or 'slime'.
  • Related words in other languages, like the Dutch 'silt', also refer to particles of soil found in water.
  • Silt is used in scientific contexts dating back to the 19th century for studying sedimentary processes.

The word 'silt' originates from the Old English word 'sylt', meaning mud or slime. Silt is a natural sediment that is often carried by rivers and deposited in various locations. It plays a significant role in land formation and can be both beneficial and problematic depending on the context.

See also: silted.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #8,152 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.