subduction

noun

sub·​duc·​tion (ˌ)səb-ˈdək-shən How to pronounce subduction (audio)
: the action or process in plate tectonics of the edge of one crustal plate descending below the edge of another
subduct verb

Examples of subduction in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
In contrast, the North American craton underwent trench retreat following flat-slab subduction but did not exhibit significant slab rollback. Devika Rao, theweek, 30 Oct. 2024 Washington is earthquake-prone, with a risk of a major seismic event, especially along the Cascadia subduction zone. Christine Clarridge, Axios, 17 Oct. 2024 The world's most powerful earthquakes happen along subduction zones, where one tectonic plate slides beneath the other. David Bressan, Forbes, 30 Mar. 2024 The ‘big one’ The Nankai Trough is a 700-kilometer long (435-mile) subduction zone, which refers to when tectonic plates slip beneath each other. Jessie Yeung, CNN, 12 Aug. 2024 See all Example Sentences for subduction 

Word History

Etymology

French, from Late Latin subduction-, subductio withdrawal, from Latin subducere to withdraw, from sub- + ducere to draw — more at tow entry 1

First Known Use

1970, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of subduction was in 1970

Dictionary Entries Near subduction

Cite this Entry

“Subduction.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/subduction. Accessed 23 Nov. 2024.

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