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Glacial: meaning, definitions and examples

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glacial

 

[ ˈɡleɪʃəl ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

relating to ice

The term 'glacial' refers to anything that is related to glaciers or ice. It often describes extremely cold conditions or environments that feature large masses of ice. The word can also be used metaphorically to indicate something that is slow, as in a glacial pace of progress. Glacial landscapes are characterized by their dramatic features, shaped by the movement of ice over long periods of time. This term can also imply a sense of emotional coldness or indifference.

Synonyms

chilly, cold, frigid, frosty, icy.

Examples of usage

  • The glacial landscape was breathtakingly beautiful.
  • They traveled through a glacial region in the Arctic.
  • The project moved at a glacial speed.
  • Glacial ice has been a subject of scientific study for decades.

Translations

Translations of the word "glacial" in other languages:

🇵🇹 glacial

🇮🇳 ग्लेशियल

🇩🇪 gletscherhaft

🇮🇩 glacial

🇺🇦 льодовиковий

🇵🇱 lodowcowy

🇯🇵 氷河の

🇫🇷 glaciaire

🇪🇸 glacial

🇹🇷 buzul

🇰🇷 빙하의

🇸🇦 جليدي

🇨🇿 ledovcový

🇸🇰 ľadovcový

🇨🇳 冰川的

🇸🇮 glacialen

🇮🇸 jökul

🇰🇿 мұздық

🇬🇪 ყინულის

🇦🇿 buzlu

🇲🇽 glacial

Etymology

The word 'glacial' has its roots in the Latin word 'glacies', meaning 'ice'. This Latin derivative has been a part of the English lexicon since the early 19th century, primarily used in geological contexts to describe phenomena related to glaciers. Over time, its usage has expanded into various fields, including meteorology and environmental science, where it describes not only physical characteristics of ice and cold but also metaphorical applications such as describing slow processes or behaviors. The term is particularly significant in discussions about climate change, as the melting of glacial ice has far-reaching implications for global sea levels and ecosystems. In recent years, 'glacial' has also taken on a newer dimension in cultural discourse, often used to describe attitudes perceived as distant or emotionally reserved.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #8,407 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.