Pronunciation: [ˈa͡ɪs fˈiːld] (IPA) 
The spelling of the word "ice field" is in line with its phonetic transcription, /aɪs fiːld/. The first syllable, "ice," is spelled as expected with the letter "i" followed by the letter "e." The second syllable, "field," is spelled with the letter "i" followed by "e" and "l" as it corresponds with the long "ee" sound. The word "ice field" refers to a large area of ice-covered land and water, commonly found in polar regions.
An ice field refers to an extensive expanse of ice that covers a vast area of land. It is a high-altitude accumulation of ice and snow, typically found in polar regions or high mountainous areas. An ice field is formed through the gradual buildup of snow over many years, which compresses and transforms into solid ice under the weight of subsequent layers.
Ice fields are often characterized by their vast size, with some extending for hundreds or even thousands of square kilometers. They can range in thickness, but typically have a considerable depth of several meters to tens of meters. The surface of an ice field is generally smooth and relatively featureless, exhibiting a visually stunning expanse of glistening ice.
These frigid environments are often host to numerous other glacial features, such as crevasses, icefalls, and seracs. They are pivotal in the formation and sustenance of glaciers, as ice from the field slowly moves downhill and feeds surrounding glaciers or outlet glaciers. Consequently, ice fields play a crucial role in the planet's water cycle, as they store massive quantities of freshwater in frozen form.
Ecologically, ice fields can support unique subnivean ecosystems where small organisms live underneath the snowpack. These areas may also serve as a habitat for larger mammals, such as polar bears or mountain goats, which are adapted to life in extreme cold environments.
Ice fields are significant subjects of study for glaciologists and climatologists, as understanding their dynamics and changes over time helps in comprehending the effects of climate change on ice masses and their contribution to sea-level rise.
A very great extent of ice in the arctic seas.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "ice field" is a compound noun consisting of two separate words: "ice" and "field".
1. Ice: The word "ice" has its origins in the Old English word "īs", which can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "*isaz". This word ultimately derives from the Proto-Indo-European root "*h₁eyH-", meaning "frost" or "ice".
2. Field: The word "field" comes from the Old English word "feld", which can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "*felþuz". This word has its roots in the Proto-Indo-European word "*pélh₂us", meaning "flat land" or "plain".
When combined, "ice field" refers to a large expanse of ice covering a considerable area, typically found in polar regions or high-altitude mountainous areas.
