GLACIERS Meaning and
Definition
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Glaciers are large masses or bodies of ice that form on land through the accumulation and compaction of snow over long periods of time, generally centuries or even millennia. These massive ice formations are primarily found in polar and high-altitude regions of the world, such as Antarctica, Greenland, the Arctic, and mountain ranges.
Glaciers are created when the accumulation of snow exceeds its ablation, or the loss of ice due to melting, evaporation, or calving (breaking off) of icebergs. As the snowpack is compressed under the weight of new snow layers, it gradually transforms into dense ice. Over time, the layers build up and flow under the force of gravity, slowly advancing downhill.
These natural phenomena play a significant role in sculpting landscapes, shaping valleys, and influencing the hydrological systems of surrounding areas. They act as gigantic reservoirs of freshwater, storing substantial amounts that are released during warmer seasons or through melting. Glaciers also affect climate patterns by reflecting sunlight, helping to regulate global temperatures.
With climate change and global warming, the world's glaciers have been retreating at an unprecedented rate, primarily due to increasing air and ocean temperatures. This has resulted in the destabilization of ecosystems, the loss of critical water supplies, and a rise in sea levels. Studying glaciers and their behavior is crucial for understanding the intricacies of the Earth's climate system and its future impacts.
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• Vast fields or accumulations of ice, or snow and ice, which collect in the valleys and ravines of snow-capt mountains like the Alps-the mounds of debris which they often leave in their movements downwards being called moraines.
• In geol., a name given to caves full of ice, found chiefly in the Alpine mountains.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Top Common Misspellings for GLACIERS *
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Other Common Misspellings for GLACIERS
Etymology of GLACIERS
The word glacier originated from the French word glace, which means ice. The French term was derived from the Late Latin word glacia, which also means ice. Ultimately, the Latin term can be traced back to the Proto-Indo-European root word gel, meaning cold or to freeze.
Similar spelling words for GLACIERS
- glaser,
- glazer,
- glacier,
- glycerin,
- glaeser,
- glazes,
- glyceria,
- glasser,
- glyceryl,
- glazier,
- glycerol.
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