geophysics

[jee-oh-fiz-iks]

noun (used with a singular verb)

the branch of geology that deals with the physics of the earth and its atmosphere, including oceanography, seismology, volcanology, and geomagnetism.

Origin of geophysics

First recorded in 1885–90; geo- + physics

Related formsge·o·phys·i·cal, adjectivege·o·phys·i·cal·ly, adverbge·o·phys·i·cist, noun

Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2018

Examples from the Web for geophysical

Contemporary Examples of geophysical

Geophysical Research Letters: Bottom scour observed under Hurricane Ivan.
The Gulf's Next Disaster
Dominique Browning
June 11, 2010
Geophysical Research Letters: Observed currents over the outer continental shelf during Hurricane Ivan.
The Gulf's Next Disaster
Dominique Browning
June 11, 2010

British Dictionary definitions for geophysical

geophysical

adjective

of or relating to geophysics

geophysics

noun

(functioning as singular) the study of the earth's physical properties and of the physical processes acting upon, above, and within the earth. It includes seismology, geomagnetism, meteorology, and oceanography

Derived Formsgeophysicist, noun

Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Word Origin and History for geophysical

adj.

1888, from geo- "earth" + physical (adj.).

geophysics

1889, from geo- + physics.

geophysical in Science

geophysics

[jē′ō-fĭz′ĭks]

The scientific study of the physical characteristics of the Earth, including its hydrosphere and atmosphere, and of the Earth's relationship to the rest of the universe.

geophysical in Culture

geophysics

The science devoted to the study of the physical properties and processes of geological phenomena, including fields such as meteorology, oceanography, and seismology.