What is the definition of sediment?

The definition of "sediment" as a noun is the matter that settles at the bottom of a liquid. In geology, "sediment" is mineral or organic matter deposited by water, ice or air.

When used as a verb with an object, "sediment" means to deposit as sediment. Similarly, when used as a verb without an object, "sediment" means to form or deposit sediment.

"Sediment" entered the English language in the 1540s from the Middle French word "sédiment." The origin of "sediment" is the Latin word "sedimentum," which means a settling or sinking down. The Latin stem "sedere" means to sit or settle, and the suffix "-ment" indicates a resulting state or product.