Pronunciation: [ˈa͡ɪs dˈa͡ɪk] (IPA) 
"Ice dike" is a phrase that comprises of two words, "ice" and "dike." The word "ice" is pronounced as /aɪs/ in IPA phonetic transcription, with the "s" sound at the end. The word "dike" is pronounced as /daɪk/ in the IPA, with a long "i" sound at the beginning and a hard "k" sound at the end. When combined, "ice dike" refers to a barrier made of ice that is used to control water flow in rivers or other bodies of water.
Ice dike refers to a geological term that defines a narrow, ridgelike structure composed of ice. It forms when water, typically in the form of meltwater or surface runoff, accumulates in a crack or crevice in the ground and subsequently freezes. Over time, as the freezing process continues, the ice dike grows in size and eventually becomes a solid barrier or partition made entirely of ice. It often exhibits a vertical or inclined orientation and can vary in length, ranging from a few centimeters to several meters.
Ice dikes are commonly found in regions that experience cold climates and frequent freeze-thaw cycles. They may form in various environments, including glaciers, permafrost regions, and even on frozen bodies of water. These structures are dynamic and continually evolve based on the availability of water and the ambient temperature conditions. Ice dikes often demonstrate varying densities and crystal formations within their core, depending on the specific freezing conditions during their formation.
Due to their vertical nature, ice dikes can impede the flow of water and redirect it along a particular path. They may act as natural obstacles for runoff water and can influence the hydrological processes of a landscape. Ice dikes can also play a role in shaping the topography of an area over time, as flow patterns and erosion processes are modified by their presence.
The term "ice dike" is a combination of the words "ice" and "dike". Here is the etymology of each word:
1. Ice: "ice" originated from the Old English word "īs" which is derived from the Proto-Germanic word "īsaz". This word ultimately comes from the Proto-Indo-European root "h₁éis" meaning "frost, ice". It has cognates in various Germanic languages, such as the Old High German word "īs" and the Old Norse word "Íss".
2. Dike: "dike" comes from the Old English word "dīc", which is derived from the Proto-Germanic word "dīkaz". It is believed to have been borrowed from the Proto-Indo-European root "dheig̑h-" meaning "to knead, shape".
