Turlough

/ˈtɜr.loʊ/ noun

Definition

A lake or pond in Ireland that fills and empties naturally with water, sometimes disappearing completely in dry seasons.

Etymology

From Irish Gaelic 'turlach' or 'tuirlech,' from 'tur' (dry) + 'loch' (lake). A specifically Irish geographical and hydrological phenomenon.

Kelly Says

Turloughs are disappearing lakes unique to Ireland's limestone karst landscape—water drains down into underground caves, so locals have known for centuries that their lake is just a temporary guest. Scientists study them because they're becoming increasingly rare as climate and water tables change.

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