weathering

American  

[weth-er-ing] / ˈwɛð ər ɪŋ /

noun

1. Architecture. wash.

2. material used as a weather strip.

3. Geology. the various mechanical and chemical processes that cause exposed rock to decompose.

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weathering British  

/ ˈwɛðərɪŋ /

noun

1. the mechanical and chemical breakdown of rocks by the action of rain, snow, cold, etc

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weathering Scientific  

/ wĕth′ər-ĭng /

1. Any of the chemical or mechanical processes by which rocks exposed to the weather undergo chemical decomposition and physical disintegration. Although weathering usually occurs at the Earth's surface, it can also occur at significant depths, for example through the percolation of groundwater through fractures in bedrock. It usually results in changes in the color, texture, composition, or hardness of the affected rocks.

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weathering Cultural  

1. The process by which rocks are broken down into small grains and soil. Weathering can happen through rainfall, ice formation, or the action of living things, such as algae and plant roots. It is part of the geological cycle.

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Etymology

Origin of weathering

First recorded in 1655–65; weather + -ing ¹

Example Sentences

Broz explained that on Earth, kaolinite is most commonly found in tropical environments such as rainforests, where heavy rainfall drives intense chemical weathering.

From Science Daily

The regime in Iran is tough, battle-hardened and capable of weathering repeated storms.

From BBC

After understanding the science behind it, she said, she was “absolutely done with the shaming from other people and particularly myself” after so many years of weathering public criticism about her weight.

From Los Angeles Times

For decades, scientists have thought Earth's climate was regulated by a slow but dependable natural process driven by rock weathering.

From Science Daily

Young Thug and singer Mariah the Scientist are hearing wedding bells after four years of dating and weathering a high-profile legal saga.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• depletion
• depreciation
• erosion