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Weathering: meaning, definitions and examples

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weathering

 

[ ˈwɛðərɪŋ ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

process of

Weathering is the process by which rocks, minerals, wood, and many other substances are broken down into smaller pieces by exposure to the atmosphere. This can happen through physical processes such as temperature changes, frost action, and abrasion, as well as chemical processes like oxidation and hydration.

Synonyms

degradation, deterioration, erosion

Examples of usage

  • Weathering of rocks can result in the formation of soil.
  • The weathering of ancient statues over time is a common occurrence.
Context #2 | Noun

effect of

Weathering refers to the effects of weather conditions on objects or materials over time. This can include damage caused by rain, wind, sunlight, and temperature changes.

Synonyms

damage, decay, deterioration

Examples of usage

  • The weathering of the old building façade was evident in the peeling paint and cracks.
  • Metal sculptures are prone to weathering due to their exposure to the elements.

Translations

Translations of the word "weathering" in other languages:

🇵🇹 intemperismo

🇮🇳 अपक्षय

🇩🇪 Verwitterung

🇮🇩 pelapukan

🇺🇦 вивітрювання

🇵🇱 wietrzenie

🇯🇵 風化 (ふうか)

🇫🇷 altération

🇪🇸 meteorización

🇹🇷 aşınma

🇰🇷 풍화

🇸🇦 التجوية

🇨🇿 zvětrávání

🇸🇰 zvetrávanie

🇨🇳 风化

🇸🇮 preperevanje

🇮🇸 veðrun

🇰🇿 үгілу

🇬🇪 დაშლა

🇦🇿 aşınma

🇲🇽 meteorización

Word origin

The term 'weathering' originated from the Old English word 'wederian', which meant 'to expose to the weather'. It has been used in geology since the 18th century to describe the process of rocks and minerals being broken down by natural elements. Weathering plays a crucial role in shaping the Earth's surface over millions of years.

See also: weathercock, weathered, weatherman, weatherproof, weatherproofing, weatherstripping, weathervane, weatherward, wether.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #11,021, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.