The term refers to land that has been uncovered by the gradual receding of water from a body such as a river, lake, or sea. This newly exposed area, previously submerged, then becomes available and potentially subject to property rights and ownership claims. An instance would be a riverbank gradually expanding as the water level decreases over time, leaving formerly underwater land exposed.
The significance of this lies in the potential for creating new real estate opportunities and affecting existing property boundaries. Understanding the legal framework governing these changes is crucial for landowners and developers. Historically, disputes regarding ownership of newly exposed land have been common, emphasizing the need for clear regulations and surveys to determine rightful possession.