Permafrost: meaning, definitions and examples

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permafrost

 

[ ˈpɜːrməfrɔːst ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

geology, climate

Permafrost is a layer of soil or rock that remains permanently frozen for two or more consecutive years, typically found in polar regions or high mountain areas. This phenomenon affects the local ecosystem, as it influences the types of vegetation and animal life that can thrive in such cold environments. Additionally, permafrost plays a significant role in the global climate system, as it contains large amounts of organic carbon. The thawing of permafrost due to climate change can release greenhouse gases, thus contributing to global warming. Understanding permafrost is crucial for climate science and environmental policy.

Synonyms

permanently frozen soil, perpetually frozen ground

Examples of usage

  • Permafrost acts as a natural insulator for the ground.
  • Geologists study permafrost to understand climate change effects.
  • The presence of permafrost can affect building foundations in cold regions.
  • Permafrost thawing is releasing significant amounts of methane.

Translations

Translations of the word "permafrost" in other languages:

🇵🇹 permafrost

🇮🇳 स्थायी बर्फ

🇩🇪 Permafrost

🇮🇩 permafrost

🇺🇦 вічна мерзлота

🇵🇱 wieczna zmarzlina

🇯🇵 永久凍土

🇫🇷 pergélisol

🇪🇸 permafrost

🇹🇷 kalıcı don

🇰🇷 영구 동토

🇸🇦 التربة المتجمدة

🇨🇿 permafrost

🇸🇰 permafrost

🇨🇳 永冻层

🇸🇮 trajno zmrzovanje

🇮🇸 permafrost

🇰🇿 мәңгі тоң

🇬🇪 მუდმივი ყინული

🇦🇿 davamlı don

🇲🇽 permafrost

Etymology

The term "permafrost" originated in the early 1940s, derived from the combination of 'permanent' and 'frost', specifically referring to sub-soil or ground that remains frozen throughout the year. The prefix 'perma-' indicates permanence, while 'frost' relates to the cold conditions that lead to the freezing of soil. The concept became significant post-World War II as scientists began conducting more research in cold climates, particularly in Siberia and Alaska, where permafrost is most prevalent. As climate change started gaining attention in the late 20th century, the study of permafrost took on new urgency, highlighting its impact on global climate systems, ecosystems, and human infrastructure. This research has revealed complex interactions between thawing permafrost, carbon release, and feedback loops contributing to climate change.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #21,609, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.