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Glaciation: meaning, definitions and examples

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glaciation

 

[ ˌɡleɪʃiˈeɪʃən ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

geological process

Glaciation refers to the process by which areas of the Earth's surface are covered with glaciers or ice sheets. This phenomenon typically occurs during periods of significant climatic cooling, leading to the expansion of ice masses. The effects of glaciation shape landscapes, create various landforms, and affect sea levels. Additionally, the study of glaciation is crucial for understanding past climate conditions and predicting future environmental changes.

Synonyms

glacial period, ice age

Examples of usage

  • The glaciation of North America left behind many lakes.
  • Scientists study glaciation to understand climate change.
  • During the last glaciation, ice sheets covered much of Europe.
  • The evidence of glaciation can be seen in the rugged mountains.

Translations

Translations of the word "glaciation" in other languages:

🇵🇹 glaciação

🇮🇳 बर्फ़बारी

🇩🇪 Eiszeit

🇮🇩 glasiasi

🇺🇦 льодовиковий період

🇵🇱 glacjacja

🇯🇵 氷期

🇫🇷 glaciation

🇪🇸 glaciación

🇹🇷 buzullaşma

🇰🇷 빙하기

🇸🇦 تجلد

🇨🇿 glaciace

🇸🇰 glaciácia

🇨🇳 冰川期

🇸🇮 glaciacija

🇮🇸 jökulhlaup

🇰🇿 мұздану

🇬🇪 ყინულის ხანა

🇦🇿 buzlaşma

🇲🇽 glaciación

Etymology

The term 'glaciation' originates from the Latin word 'glacies,' meaning 'ice.' The concept began to take shape in the 19th century when geologists started to investigate the geological evidence of ice ages. Initially, the study of glaciation was closely tied to the understanding of the Earth’s climatic history and the impact of glaciers on the landscape. Edges of glaciers would reveal striations and other geological features, providing clues to their extensive past. The study of glaciation not only highlighted the significant shifts in climate over millennia but also paved the way for modern climate science. As researchers continued to explore the effects of glaciation, they recognized its profound implications on biodiversity, sea level, and even human history, influencing migrations and settlements.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #19,361, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.