1. a shallow natural depression in the ground that holds water temporarily, especially in arid regions
Usage: geology; geography
2. a hard layer of clay beneath the soil surface that prevents water drainage
Usage: soil science; agriculture

Examples

• The claypan filled with water after the spring rains.
• Cattle gathered around the claypan to drink.
• The farmer had difficulty planting crops due to the claypan beneath the topsoil.
• Water pooled on the surface because of the underlying claypan.
• The claypan dried up completely during the summer drought.
• Roots couldn’t penetrate the dense claypan layer.