Landsliding Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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landsliding

[หˆlรฆndsหŒlaษชdษชล‹ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

natural disaster

Landsliding is a geological phenomenon in which soil, rock, and other debris move down a slope due to gravity. It can occur suddenly or gradually and is often triggered by factors such as heavy rainfall, earthquakes, or human activities. Landslides can lead to significant property damage, loss of life, and can alter landscapes.

Synonyms

earth flow, landslide, slump.

Examples of usage

  • The landsliding after the rain destroyed several homes.
  • Geologists study the causes of landsliding in mountainous regions.
  • Emergency services were deployed to assist in the landsliding disaster.
  • Landsliding can pose serious risks to roadways and infrastructure.

Translations

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Origin of 'landsliding'

The term 'landslide' derives from the combining of 'land' and 'slide'. The word 'land' dates back to Old English 'land', which means 'ground' or 'soil', and is linked to various Germanic terms. The word 'slide' comes from the Old English 'slฤซdan', which means 'to move, glide or slip'. The usage of 'landslide' in English to refer specifically to the rapid downward movement of earth material began to emerge in the mid-19th century. The phenomenon has been discussed in geological contexts for centuries, but the modern term gained popularity as the understanding of geology and earth sciences developed. Landslides have been acknowledged in historical texts, particularly in relation to their devastating effects on communities and the environment. Over the years, various classifications and methods for studying landslides have been established, leading to advancements in predicting and mitigating their impact.