Rockfall: meaning, definitions and examples
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rockfall
[ ˈrɒk.fɔːl ]
natural disaster
A rockfall is a geological phenomenon that occurs when a mass of rock falls from a height due to gravity. It typically happens on steep slopes or cliffs and can be triggered by various factors such as weathering, erosion, and seismic activity. Rockfalls can pose significant hazards, especially in mountainous areas, potentially causing damage to infrastructure and threatening lives. The size of the falling rocks can vary greatly, and the speed at which they fall can lead to catastrophic consequences if they strike people or structures.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The recent rockfall blocked the mountain road.
- Park rangers warned hikers about the risk of rockfall.
- A massive rockfall caused a major delay in train services.
- After the storm, several rockfalls were reported in the area.
Translations
Translations of the word "rockfall" in other languages:
🇵🇹 deslizamento de rochas
🇮🇳 चट्टान गिरना
🇩🇪 Felssturz
🇮🇩 longsoran batu
🇺🇦 обвал каміння
🇵🇱 osuwisko skalne
🇯🇵 岩崩れ
🇫🇷 chute de pierres
🇪🇸 deslizamiento de rocas
🇹🇷 kayalık düşmesi
🇰🇷 암석 낙하
🇸🇦 سقوط الصخور
🇨🇿 sesuv skály
🇸🇰 pád skál
🇨🇳 岩石滑落
🇸🇮 plaz kamnin
🇮🇸 bergskrið
🇰🇿 тас құлауы
🇬🇪 ქვების დაცემა
🇦🇿 daş düşməsi
🇲🇽 deslizamiento de rocas
Etymology
The term 'rockfall' combines the word 'rock,' which originates from the Old English 'rocc,' meaning a solid mineral matter, and 'fall,' deriving from the Old English 'feallan,' meaning to drop or tumble down. The use of the word 'rockfall' in geological contexts dates back to the early 20th century, when it was increasingly recognized as a distinct phenomenon in the study of natural hazards. As environmental science evolved, especially in the fields of geology and geomorphology, the specific term became vital for professionals assessing the risks associated with mountainous terrains. Rockfalls are now a significant focus in engineering and disaster management, prompting the development of mitigation strategies to protect people and infrastructure.