What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
silt
Example
The river was clogged with silt after the heavy rain. [silt: noun]
Example
The bottom of the lake was covered in silt and debris. [silt: noun]
sediment
Example
The sediment at the bottom of the glass showed how much sugar was in the drink. [sediment: noun]
Example
The geologist studied the sediment layers to understand the history of the area. [sediment: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Sediment is more commonly used than silt in scientific and geological contexts. Silt is more commonly used in the context of waterways and agriculture.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between silt and sediment?
Both silt and sediment are formal words that are typically used in scientific and technical contexts.
