Esker

/ˈɛskər/ noun

Definition

A long, winding ridge of sediment deposited by a stream flowing under a glacier. Formed when glacial meltwater carries sand and gravel in tunnels beneath the ice.

Etymology

From Irish 'eiscir' meaning 'ridge.' The word entered English through geological studies in Ireland, where these features are particularly prominent and well-preserved.

Kelly Says

Maine's famous eskers are so long and straight that early roads and even Interstate 95 were built on top of them! These ancient glacier-formed ridges provided natural highways through otherwise swampy terrain.

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