DCHP-1 Online
snow-crust 
n. a layer of frozen snow overlying softer snow, formed by the melting and refreezing of the surface, aided by wind compaction.
See also: crust
- c1902 The heat of the sun told him the directions; and when the sun went down, the crooning west wind, bringing thaw and snow-crust, was his compass.
- 1824 (1955) They left the Fort in March on the snow crust.
- 1955 Once the snow was broken the cattle got their noses underneath and then moved along, feeding and breaking the snow crust upwards with their heads.
- c1902 The heat of the sun told him the directions; and when the sun went down, the crooning west wind, bringing thaw and snow-crust, was his compass.