plate boundary

American  

[playt baund-er-ee, baun-dree] / ˈpleɪt ˈbaʊnd ər i, ˈbaʊn dri /

noun

1. Geology. Also called tectonic boundary, tectonic plate boundary, a bordering edge between two tectonic plates, along which most volcanic and earthquake activity occurs as the plates push into each other, pull apart from each other, or slide against each other.

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Example Sentences

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plate boundary

Caracas’ seismic risk is similar to the risk Los Angeles and San Francisco face, as each of the three cities sits near a tectonic plate boundary “and therefore historically have had bigger earthquakes,” Jones said.

From Los Angeles Times ● Jun. 25, 2026

The plate boundary sits between Suruga Bay in central Japan, and the Hyuganada Sea in Kyushu to the south.

From BBC ● Aug. 8, 2024

“It’s not quite as obvious, because there is no tectonic plate boundary that is active,” Dr. Frank said.

From New York Times ● Apr. 5, 2024

The temperature along the plate boundary and the amount of strain built up is well studied there, and the results of their model match crustal movements based on satellite observations, the scientists said.

From Science Daily ● Feb. 7, 2024

Pakistan and the region, which sit along an active continental plate boundary, are often hit by earthquakes.

From Seattle Times ● Jan. 11, 2024