Mudslide: meaning, definitions and examples
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mudslide
[ ˈmʌdˌslaɪd ]
natural disaster
A mudslide, also known as a mudflow, is a rapidly flowing mass of mud that occurs when soil becomes saturated with water and loses its cohesion. These events usually happen after heavy rainfall, earthquakes, or volcanic eruptions. Mudslides can travel down slopes at high speeds, posing significant risks to life and property. They are particularly common in hilly or mountainous regions where vegetation has been removed, making the soil more susceptible to erosion. The destructive nature of mudslides can lead to severe damage to infrastructure and homes in their path.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The heavy rain triggered a mudslide that blocked the main road.
- Residents were evacuated as a precaution against potential mudslides.
- The mudslide destroyed several homes in the neighborhood.
- After the wildfire, the risk of mudslides increased dramatically.
Translations
Translations of the word "mudslide" in other languages:
🇵🇹 deslizamento de terra
🇮🇳 मुदस्लाइड
🇩🇪 Murenabgang
🇮🇩 longsor
🇺🇦 селе
🇵🇱 osuwisko
🇯🇵 土砂崩れ
🇫🇷 glissement de terrain
🇪🇸 deslizamiento de tierra
🇹🇷 çamur kayması
🇰🇷 진흙 미끄럼
🇸🇦 انزلاق طيني
🇨🇿 sesuv
🇸🇰 zosun
🇨🇳 泥石流
🇸🇮 plaz
🇮🇸 mölrunnur
🇰🇿 балшық көшкіні
🇬🇪 პირქუში
🇦🇿 palçıq sürüşməsi
🇲🇽 deslizamiento de tierra
Etymology
The term 'mudslide' originated in the early 20th century, combining the words 'mud' and 'slide'. 'Mud' comes from Old English 'mudd', referring to soft, wet earth or soil. The use of 'slide' relates to the act of moving downward or gliding, which can be traced back to Old English as well, specifically 'slīdan', meaning to slip or glide. The concept itself has been known for centuries, but the specific terminology likely gained traction as geological studies developed, particularly concerning natural disasters and their effects on human settlements. Over time, 'mudslide' encapsulated not only the movement of earth but also its implications for environmental and civil engineering discussions.