The term used by geologists for water that soaks into ground fills openings in soil and trickles into cracks and spaces in layers of rock is groundwater.

Here's a breakdown of why:

* Groundwater is the water found underground in the spaces between soil particles and rock formations. It's a significant source of water for many communities and ecosystems.

* Infiltration is the process by which water on the ground surface enters the soil.

* Percolation is the process by which water moves through the soil and rock layers, filling the pores and spaces.

So, the water that soaks into the ground, filling spaces and cracks, is considered groundwater.