What does snowdrift mean?
A snowdrift is a mound or elongated ridge of snow that has been carried and deposited by the wind. Drifts commonly form beside walls, fences, hedges, vehicles, and other obstacles, where the wind slows and snow collects in the sheltered space. They can also accumulate in hollows and depressions. Although the word refers specifically to windblown snow, it is often used more broadly for any substantial heap or bank of snow. Snowdrifts may obstruct roads and paths, bury vehicles, or provide sheltered places for animals. In descriptions of winter landscapes, the word conveys the movement and shaping power of wind as well as the depth and unevenness of accumulated snow.
nounA mound or elongated accumulation of snow deposited by the wind, often on the sheltered side of an obstacle or in a depression.
- A mound, bank, or elongated ridge of snow blown or drifted by the wind.
"A deep snowdrift had formed behind the garden wall."
"The path was blocked by a snowdrift nearly chest-high."
"Skiers jumped over the snowdrift at the bottom of the slope."
The regular plural is used for separate windblown accumulations of snow.
"Deep snowdrifts covered the narrow country road."
Wind does not merely pile up snow; it sculpts it into towering, sheltering walls.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of snowdrift
The word combines snow with drift, which comes from Old Norse drífa, meaning “to push” or “to drive.” The same Germanic root also lies behind English drive, in the sense of pushing or causing something to move. Snowdrift developed as a compound naming a mass of snow driven or blown by the wind.
How snowdrift is actually used
The word is especially associated with snow that has been deposited by wind. It is common in cold regions and in descriptions of winter travel, roads, and terrain.