drier (drier)

[ 1770 mixture of two or more of these deposits, resting on the surface of the bed-rock. The term drift was introduced by Lyell in 1840, to take the place of dilu vium, with which latter word the idea of a universal deluge, and especially the Noachian deluge, had been generally a ociated. (See diluvium.) The word drift is now usually applied to detrital deposits when it is intended to include at the same time the transportation from a distance. Almost all detrital material has, however, been formed with more or le help from running water, and therefore must in that proce have been moved to a greater or le distance from the place of its origin. It is especially with reference to material lying on the surface in northern Europe and northeastern North America that the term drift is used at present by geologists, and it is frequently called northern drift, since much of it has been moved in a southerly direction. And since ice is believed by most geologists to have been the principal agent by drill There is for every soil a limit in depth beyond which it becomes more expedient to drift the required way, and construct a vaulted tunnel of sufficient dimensions, than to make an open cutting with the requisite slopes. Encyc. Brit ., IV. 448. 4. To delay; put off. Jamie son. [Scotch.] The Lord, suppose hee drifted and delayed the effect of his prayer,... yit he heareth him. R. Bruce, Eleven Sermons.