Hummock

A hummock is a small, rounded hill or knoll. It's a naturally formed elevated area on the land's surface, often found in fields, marshes, or along coastlines. They can vary in size and composition, ranging from grassy mounds to rocky protuberances. Hummocks are frequently formed by the accumulation of soil, vegetation, or ice. Their presence can influence drainage patterns, provide shelter for wildlife, and sometimes pose obstacles in navigating the landscape. These formations can result from geological processes or environmental influences such as erosion or ice deposition.

Hummock meaning with examples

• The hikers followed the winding path, their boots crunching on the frozen hummocks that dotted the winter landscape. The uneven terrain made for slow progress, but the views from each hummock overlooking the valley were stunning. Each knoll offered a unique perspective, allowing the group to appreciate the vastness of the snow-covered terrain. They carefully stepped over the hummocks, mindful of potential hidden icy patches.
• In the marsh, the rare orchids bloomed only on the drier hummocks, their delicate flowers a vibrant contrast against the green reeds. The conservationists focused their efforts on protecting these isolated hummocks, knowing they held the key to preserving the ecosystem's biodiversity. These elevated areas served as refuge for various insect species that relied on the marsh's specific characteristics.
• The sheep grazed contentedly among the grassy hummocks in the meadow, seeking the patches of sweetest vegetation. The farmer was careful to allow the grass to grow high on the hummocks before allowing his sheep to graze to give the land a chance to recover. The scattered hummocks provided a safe haven for nesting birds, safe from potential predation from the open ground.
• During the storm, the rising tide crashed against the coastal hummocks, slowly eroding the sandy banks. The hummocks, once a buffer against the sea, gradually diminished, their composition changing due to constant exposure. Coastal managers studied the hummock's resilience to develop strategies to protect the shore from further degradation from future storm surges.