Definition

The water that flows from melting snow, especially during a specific time of year when snow begins to melt.

Example

The rivers swell with snowmelt in the spring, providing essential water for the ecosystem.

Conversation

Have you seen how high the rivers are right now?

Yeah, it's crazy! I think it's all from the snowmelt.

I didn't realize it could affect the rivers so much.

Totally! The snowmelt can really cause some flooding if it happens too fast.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Snowmelt → It is formed from "snow" (from Old English *snāw*, meaning frozen precipitation) and "melt" (from Old English *meltan*, meaning to become liquid). The word "snowmelt" refers to the process of snow turning into water as it warms up and melts.

Memory Tip

Think of snow that is 'frozen precipitation' ('snow') turning into 'liquid' ('melt') as it warms up — that's what snowmelt means.

Visually Confused Words