A lake is a body of relatively still fresh or salt water of considerable size, localized in a basin, that is surrounded by land. Lakes are inland and not part of the ocean and therefore are distinct from lagoons, and are larger and deeper than ponds. Lakes can be contrasted with rivers or streams, which are usually flowing. However most lakes are fed and drained by rivers and streams.

Natural lakes are generally found in mountainous areas, rift zones, and areas with ongoing glaciation. Other lakes are found in endorheic basins or along the courses of mature rivers. In some parts of the world there are many lakes because of chaotic drainage patterns left over from the last Ice Age. All lakes are temporary over geologic time scales, as they will slowly fill in with sediments or spill out of the basin containing them.

Many lakes are artificial and are constructed for industrial or agricultural use, for hydro-electric power generation or domestic water supply, or for aesthetic or recreational purposes.

Noun

lake (plural lakes)

1. A large, landlocked, naturally-occurring stretch of water.
2. A large amount of liquid; as, a wine lake.
   • 1991, Robert DeNiro (actor), Backdraft:

     So you punched out a window for ventilation. Was that before or after you noticed you were standing in a lake of gasoline?

Synonyms

• See also Wikisaurus:lake

Matching Results for Lake:

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Oliver Hazard Perry
Dispatch to General William Henry Harrison after the Battle of Lake Erie, (10 September 1813) ... The mastery of the lakes, the recovery of Detroit and the far West, the capture ...

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Recreation: Scouting: Organizations: Boy Scouts ...
Great Salt Lake Council - Official site for the Northern Utah region based in Salt Lake City. Includes calendars, camps, training, contacts, awards, and registration ...

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Cape Cod Campresort and Cabins - Situated on 55 acres, with a private lake and a sandy beach. Cabin and boat rentals, clubhouse, game-room and pool.

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Carp Fishing Holiday in Brittany - Carp fishing holidays on lake in Brittany, France. Carp Fishing Holidays - Lakeside carp fishing ...