weathering

[ weth-er-ing ]

noun

1. Architecture. wash ( def 45 ).
2. material used as a weather strip.
3. Geology. the various mechanical and chemical processes that cause exposed rock to decompose. Compare chemical weathering, mechanical weathering.

weathering

/ ˈwɛðərɪŋ /

noun

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

weathering

/ 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.

weathering

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 .

Word History and Origins

Origin of weathering¹

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

Example Sentences

They learned the volcanic rock in the lava tubes created a protective environment that helped shield the minerals and organic compounds from weathering, ultimately preserving the minerals as records of past ecosystems.

From Science Daily

The scorecard will split opinion, but the sight of a bloodied Serrano throwing hands despite a ghastly cut and Taylor admirably weathering the storm somewhat saved the event.

From BBC

He then saw 15 tiles that would need to be repaired and said he could tell the damage was recent because of "weathering and colouration".

From BBC

One such approach, called enhanced rock weathering, involves spreading finely ground silicate rocks, like basalt, on the ground or the ocean, which absorb carbon dioxide from the air as they weather in the rain.

From Salon

The singer - currently sporting hair as orange as Irn Bru - is used to weathering what he refers to as "seismic changes" in his life and turning them into material for songs.

From BBC

Related Words

• depletion
• depreciation
• erosion