Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Subsidence Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

⬇️
Add to dictionary

subsidence

[səbˈsaɪdəns ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

geological

The gradual caving in or sinking of an area of land.

Synonyms

sagging, settling, sinking.

Examples of usage

  • The subsidence of the ground caused by underground mining can lead to sinkholes.
  • Heavy rainfall can contribute to subsidence in areas with clay soil.
  • The subsidence of coastal areas due to rising sea levels is a major concern for many regions.
  • The government is monitoring the subsidence of the building to ensure safety.
  • Subsidence can result from the extraction of groundwater in certain regions.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Geological Impact

  • Natural processes like earthquakes or volcanic activity can cause dramatic subsidence.
  • Human activities, such as mining and groundwater extraction, are significant contributors to ground sinking.

Environmental Concerns

  • Subsidence can lead to flooding in low-lying areas, increasing the risk of natural disasters.
  • It can disrupt ecosystems, as changes in the landscape affect local flora and fauna.

Urban Development

  • In many cities, ground sinking poses risks to infrastructure, necessitating regular surveys and maintenance.
  • Developers often face legal challenges regarding subsidence when buildings settle unexpectedly after construction.

Historical Events

  • The city of Venice is known for its subsidence issues, with its historic buildings slowly sinking into the lagoon.
  • In 1976, the town of Pozzuoli in Italy experienced significant subsidence due to volcanic activity, leading to evacuations.

Origin of 'subsidence'

Main points about word origin

  • The term stems from the Latin word 'subsidere', meaning 'to sink down'.
  • Initially used in geology, the word has evolved to cover various contexts, including construction and land use.

The word 'subsidence' originates from the Latin word 'subsidentia,' which means a sinking down. The term has been used in geology and construction to describe the gradual sinking or caving in of land. Subsidence can occur naturally, such as through erosion, or be induced by human activities like mining or groundwater extraction. Understanding and monitoring subsidence is crucial for assessing risks to infrastructure and the environment.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #12,990, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.