Lake

Definition

Lake is a noun that refers to a large body of water surrounded by land, typically freshwater, formed naturally or artificially.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /leɪk/
• Respelling: LAYK

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /leɪk/
• Respelling: LAYK

Etymology

The word "lake" originates from the Old English "lac," meaning a stream, pool, or water, and was influenced by Old Norse "læk" and Latin "lacus," meaning "a basin or reservoir." It entered Middle English retaining its reference to a body of water.

Derivatives

• Lakelike (adjective)
• Lakeside (noun/adjective)
• Lakebed (noun)
• Overlake (noun)
• Lakefront (noun)

Synonyms

• Pond
• Reservoir
• Lagoon

Antonyms

• None

Usage

The term "lake" is commonly used in geographic, ecological, and recreational contexts. For example, "They spent the weekend fishing by the lake," or "The region is known for its numerous lakes."

Related Terms

• River: A large natural stream of water flowing in a channel.
• Pond: A smaller body of still water.
• Reservoir: An artificial lake used for water storage.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A large body of water surrounded by land: Refers to a naturally or artificially formed expanse of water.
  • Example: "Lake Superior is the largest freshwater lake in the world by surface area."
• An artificial pool or reservoir: Describes a man-made body of water, often created for storage, recreation, or industrial use.
  • Example: "The city relies on the reservoir lake for its water supply."