The term for a freshwater body of water surrounded by land is a lake. Lakes can be formed through various geological processes, including glacial activity, volcanic activity, or tectonic movements. They serve as essential ecosystems, supporting diverse wildlife and plant species, and are vital for human activities such as drinking water, recreation, and agriculture. Lakes can vary greatly in size and depth, from small ponds to expansive bodies of water like the Great Lakes in North America. They also play a crucial role in local climate regulation and are often areas of significant biodiversity, making them important for conservation efforts.