Ekman drift refers to the mechanical response of the ocean to wind blowing across its surface.  The surface water is dragged along with the wind.  However, due to the Coriolis force, it is deflected somewhat to the right (in the NH).  The surface water

drags along the water immediately beneath it but at a somewhat slower speed, and this layer is also deflected to the right under the influence of the Coriolis force.  The result is a spiraling pattern in the current direction with ever decreasing current speeds with depth.  The net transport of water is to the right of the wind.