# hydrology

/haɪdɹˈɒlədʒi/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/hydrology
Updated: 2026-05-20

## Definition

the study of how water moves on, under, and around the Earth. It looks at things like rivers, lakes, and how water travels through soil.

For teachers: the scientific study of the movement, distribution, and quality of water on Earth and in the hydrosphere. It encompasses the physical and chemical properties of water and its interactions with the environment.

## Examples

- The university offers a degree in hydrology.
- Hydrology is essential for predicting how heavy rainfall will affect local rivers and flood plains.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.
