Ice banner refers to a naturally formed ice structure that hangs vertically from various surfaces such as cliffs, rocky overhangs, or cave entrances. It is created through a process known as ice drip formation, where water seeping through cracks in the surface freezes due to cold temperatures, slowly accumulating and stretching downward over time.
Ice banners are typically thin and elongated, exhibiting a delicate and dazzling appearance. They are often seen in cold and humid regions, such as polar areas or high-altitude mountainous terrains, where freezing conditions prevailing for extended periods facilitate their formation. The icy formations can vary in size, ranging from a few inches to several feet in length.
These striking ice formations are renowned for their natural beauty and can captivate observers with their intricate patterns. The translucent appearance of ice banners is particularly captivating when sunlight or artificial light refracts through them, emanating a mesmerizing glow. In some cases, layers of air bubbles trapped within the ice add to their enchanting allure.
Ice banners are considered ephemeral structures, vulnerable to warm temperatures or other environmental factors that can cause their rapid melting or collapse. Thus, they are often regarded as temporary masterpieces of nature, appearing and disappearing with the changing seasons and weather conditions. Sightseers and nature enthusiasts appreciate the unique spectacle that ice banners offer, making them a subject of fascination and admiration in cold, icy landscapes.
The term "ice banner" does not have a distinct etymology. It is a compound word made up of the words "ice" and "banner", both of which have different origins.
"Ice" comes from the Old English word "is", which is derived from the Proto-Germanic word "isaz". This word has its roots in the Proto-Indo-European word "h₁eyHs", meaning "to freeze" or "become rigid".
"Banner" comes from the Old French word "baniere", which is ultimately derived from the Latin word "bandum" or "banderia". It originally referred to a flag or standard used in warfare.
When combined, "ice banner" most likely refers to a flag or banner made of ice or resembling ice in some way.