Water table

Also: a plane (well, probably not that smooth- perhaps a hull?) beneath the ground that represents the depths at which water may be found. In other words, a map (or table) which tells you how deep, at any point, you would need to dig to reach water.

Wa"ter ta"ble (?). Arch.

A molding, or other projection, in the wall of a building, to throw off the water, -- generally used in the United States for the first table above the surface of the ground (see Table, n., 9), that is, for the table at the top of the foundation and the beginning of the upper wall.

© Webster 1913.

Water table. (Hydraulic Engin.)

The upper limit of the portion of the ground wholly saturated with water. The water table may be within a few inches of the surface or many feet below it.

© Webster 1913