nivation

[ nahy-vey-shuhn ]

noun

, Geology.

1. erosion resulting from the action of frost beneath a snowbank.

nivation

/ naɪˈveɪʃən /

noun

1. the weathering of rock around a patch of snow by alternate freezing and thawing

Word History and Origins

Origin of nivation¹

1895–1900; < Latin niv- (stem of nix ) snow + -ation

Word History and Origins

Origin of nivation¹

C19: from Latin nix, stem niv- snow

Example Sentences

Thus far only those volcanoes have been considered which have been modified by nivation.

From Project Gutenberg

The process of nivation, or snow erosion, does not always produce visible effects.

From Project Gutenberg

He has adequately shown the manner in which that phase of nivation is expressed which we find at the border of the snow.

From Project Gutenberg

It would at first sight appear impossible to distinguish between these changes through the results of nivation.

From Project Gutenberg