Definition

Noun: A channel dug in the ground to carry water from a source (like a river, reservoir, or canal) to fields or crops for the purpose of watering them artificially.

Usage

An "irrigation ditch" is a specific type of ditch constructed for agricultural purposes. It is a man-made feature used to distribute water across farmland. The term is typically used in agricultural, geographical, and engineering contexts.

Examples

• The farmer cleared the weeds from the irrigation ditch to ensure water could flow freely to his crops.
• Water from the river was diverted into a network of irrigation ditches that fed the entire valley.
• Modern sprinkler systems have replaced many of the old irrigation ditches in this region.

Advanced Usage

• "to maintain an irrigation ditch": This phrase refers to the regular work of keeping the ditch clear of obstructions and in good repair to ensure proper water flow.
  • The community shares the responsibility to maintain the main irrigation ditch.
• The concept can be part of larger systems, such as "irrigation ditch networks" or "irrigation ditch management."

Variants and Related Words

• Ditch (n): A general term for a long, narrow trench or channel dug in the ground, often for drainage or as a boundary. An irrigation ditch is a specific type of ditch.
• Canal (n): A larger, often artificial waterway used for navigation or irrigation. An irrigation ditch is typically smaller and more localized than a canal.
• Channel (n): A broader term for a passage along which water or other fluids flow. An irrigation ditch is a type of channel.
• Acequia (n): A term, particularly in the southwestern United States and Spanish-influenced regions, for a community-operated watercourse or irrigation ditch.

Synonyms

• Water channel
• Conduit (when referring specifically to carrying water)
• Race (a channel, especially one supplying water to or from a mill, related in function)

Related Phrases

• "Head of the ditch": Refers to the point where water enters the irrigation ditch from its source.
  • They placed a gate at the head of the ditch to control the water flow.
• "Ditch rider": A person responsible for managing the water flow and maintenance along a section of irrigation ditches.
  • The ditch rider adjusted the gates to ensure each farm received its allotted water.

Notes

The term "irrigation ditch" is a compound noun. Its meaning is directly derived from its components: "irrigation" (the artificial application of water to land) and "ditch" (a trench). It is a fixed term for this specific agricultural structure.

Noun

1. a ditch to supply dry land with water artificially