3. (mining)

Defn: to make a drift; to examine a vein or ledge for the purpose of ascertaining the presence of metals or ores; to follow a vein; to prospect. [U.S.]

DRIFT
Drift, v. t.

1. To drive or carry, as currents do a floating body. J. H. Newman.

2. To drive into heaps; as, a current of wind drifts snow or sand.

3. (Mach.)

Defn: To enlarge or shape, as a hole, with a drift.

DRIFT
Drift, a.

Defn: That causes drifting or that is drifted; movable by wind or
currents; as, drift currents; drift ice; drift mud. Kane. Drift
anchor. See Sea anchor, and also Drag sail, under Drag, n.
— Drift epoch (Geol.), the glacial epoch.
— Drift net, a kind of fishing net.
— Drift sail. Same as Drag sail. See under Drag, n.

DRIFTAGE
Drift"age, n.