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Subarctic: meaning, definitions and examples

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subarctic

 

[ səˈbɑrk.tɪk ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

geographical region

Subarctic refers to the region lying just below the Arctic Circle, characterized by cold temperatures and long winters. It encompasses parts of Canada, Alaska, and northern Europe and Asia. The climate is marked by short summers and permafrost in many areas, leading to unique ecosystems and wildlife. This classification is essential for understanding the climate and ecological zones where certain vegetation and animal species thrive.

Synonyms

boreal, cold-temperate, subarctic zone

Examples of usage

  • The subarctic tundra is home to many migratory birds.
  • In subarctic regions, temperatures can plummet below freezing.
  • The subarctic landscape is often characterized by vast stretches of snow.
  • Subarctic animals have adapted to extreme cold conditions.

Translations

Translations of the word "subarctic" in other languages:

🇵🇹 subárctico

🇮🇳 उपध्रुवीय

🇩🇪 subarktisch

🇮🇩 subartik

🇺🇦 субарктичний

🇵🇱 subarktyczny

🇯🇵 亜北極の

🇫🇷 subarctique

🇪🇸 subárctico

🇹🇷 subarktik

🇰🇷 아극지의

🇸🇦 شبه قطبي

🇨🇿 subarktický

🇸🇰 subarktický

🇨🇳 亚北极的

🇸🇮 subarktični

🇮🇸 subarctic

🇰🇿 субарктикалық

🇬🇪 სამონათო

🇦🇿 subarktik

🇲🇽 subárctico

Word origin

The term 'subarctic' is derived from the Latin prefix 'sub-', meaning 'under' or 'below', and 'Arctic', which comes from the Greek word 'arktikos', referring to the northern regions of the Earth. The concept of the subarctic was first coined in the late 19th century as researchers began to classify climates and ecological zones more systematically. As explorers ventured further north, they noted the significant climatic transition that occurs just below the Arctic Circle, leading to a distinct subarctic environment. The importance of this classification grew in the context of climate science and ecology, helping to understand and protect the fragile ecosystems in these areas. Moreover, the subarctic has become a focus for studying the impacts of climate change, as its environment is particularly sensitive to rising global temperatures.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #29,725, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.