karst

[ kahrst ]

noun

, Geology.

1. an area of limestone terrane characterized by sinks, ravines, and underground streams.

karst

/ kɑːst /

noun

1. modifier denoting the characteristic scenery of a limestone region, including underground streams, gorges, etc

Derived Forms

• ˈkarstic, adjective

Other Words From

• karstic adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of karst¹

1900–05; < German, generic use of Karst, name of limestone plateau north of Trieste

Word History and Origins

Origin of karst¹

C19: German, from Karst, limestone plateau near Trieste

Example Sentences

Deciduous and evergreen forests dominate the limestone karst formations of the northwestern highlands of Thailand.

From Science Daily

Their formation is most common in easily erodible karst terrains with carbonate rocks, like limestone or dolomite, or minerals known as evaporites, like salt and gypsum.

From National Geographic

The karst lands are so embedded in our cultural sense of place, we’ve got our own map of chthonic legends.

From Salon

Turkey’s landscape is marked by karst, a type of terrain where caves easily form.

From National Geographic

China holds the presidency of this year's summit, and the talks were initially scheduled to be held in Kunming — a city in Yunnan province featuring towering karst cliffs and deep mountain gorges.

From Reuters