solifluction

noun

so·​li·​fluc·​tion ˈsō-lə-ˌflək-shən How to pronounce solifluction (audio)
: the slow creeping of saturated fragmental material (such as soil) down a slope that usually occurs in regions of perennial frost

Word History

Etymology

Latin solum soil + -i- + fluction-, fluctio act of flowing, from fluere to flow — more at fluid

First Known Use

1906, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of solifluction was in 1906

Dictionary Entries Near solifluction

Cite this Entry

“Solifluction.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/solifluction. Accessed 24 Nov. 2024.

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