Definition

A pile of rocks and dirt that has been moved and left behind by a glacier.

Example

The hikers walked along the moraine, admiring the unique landscape created by the glacier.

Conversation

Have you ever seen a moraine up close?

No, I haven't! What exactly is it?

It's basically a pile of rocks and debris left by a glacier.

That sounds interesting! I'd love to check one out sometime.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Moraine originates from the French word *moraine*, meaning a mass of earth and stones carried down and deposited by a glacier. The term is derived from the Old French *morain*, which is related to the Latin *mora*, meaning delay or obstacle, as glaciers can create barriers in the landscape. Thus, a moraine refers to the debris left behind by a glacier, forming a natural obstacle.

Memory Tip

Imagine a glacier that leaves behind a 'mass of earth and stones' as it moves, creating a natural 'obstacle' in the landscape. This helps you remember that a moraine is the debris left by a glacier.

Visually Confused Words