any alluvial deposit from whichgold is obtained by washing; or «the auriferous gravel, sand,clay, or cement, in which the greatest proportion of gold isfound.» (Brough Smyth's `Glossary,' 1869.) Often called dirt (q.v.).
1896. `Melbourne Argus,' April 30, p. 7, col. 6:
«In colour the washdirt is of a browner and more iron-stainedappearance than the white free wash met across the creek.»