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subsidence
IPA:

Dictionary definition of subsidence
The gradual or sudden sinking or settling of the Earth's surface, usually caused by the collapse or compaction of the underlying soil or rock layers.
"The old building showed signs of subsidence, with cracks appearing on the walls."
Detailed meaning of subsidence
It is a geological phenomenon that can have significant impacts on both natural and built environments. Subsidence can occur due to various factors, such as the removal of groundwater or oil from underground reservoirs, mining activities, natural geological processes, or human-induced activities like the extraction of resources. The consequences of subsidence can be detrimental, leading to the formation of sinkholes, the tilting or cracking of structures, the disruption of infrastructure, and the alteration of drainage patterns. Efforts are made to monitor and mitigate subsidence risks, including implementing regulations for responsible resource extraction and employing engineering techniques to stabilize the affected areas.
Example sentences containing subsidence
1. The coastal region experienced subsidence due to the extraction of groundwater.
2. The mining activities in the area caused significant subsidence, resulting in the collapse of several structures.
3. The residents were evacuated from the neighborhood due to the risk of subsidence.
4. The geologists conducted surveys to assess the extent of subsidence in the region.
5. The subsidence of the road caused inconvenience to the commuters.
6. The insurance company denied the claim, stating that the damage was caused by subsidence.
History and etymology of subsidence
The noun 'subsidence' finds its linguistic roots in the Latin term 'subsidentia,' which is derived from the verb 'subsīdere.' The Latin word 'subsīdere' combines 'sub,' meaning 'under,' with 'sīdere,' meaning 'to settle' or 'to sink.' This etymology aptly mirrors the gradual or sudden sinking or settling of the Earth's surface that 'subsidence' typically refers to. It is usually brought about by the collapse or compaction of the underlying soil or rock layers, emphasizing the downward motion or decline inherent in the term's origin.
Further usage examples of subsidence
1. The construction project had to be halted temporarily due to the discovery of subsidence in the area.
2. The local government implemented measures to prevent subsidence in vulnerable regions.
3. The homeowners filed a lawsuit against the mining company for the subsidence damage to their properties.
4. The engineers utilized advanced techniques to monitor subsidence in real-time.
5. The study found a correlation between groundwater extraction and subsidence rates.
6. The geological survey indicated that subsidence was a natural occurrence in the area.
7. The subsidence caused the underground pipelines to rupture, leading to a gas leak.
8. The city council allocated funds for the rehabilitation of buildings affected by subsidence.
9. The residents were advised to reinforce their homes to minimize the impact of subsidence.
10. The coastal erosion and subsequent subsidence threatened the existence of the village.
11. The geotechnical team conducted soil tests to determine the potential for subsidence in the construction site.
12. The subsidence of the riverbank resulted in the alteration of the watercourse.
13. The homeowners installed monitoring devices to detect any signs of subsidence early on.
14. The construction site experienced subsidence due to unstable soil.
15. Coastal areas are vulnerable to subsidence from rising sea levels.
16. Engineers worked to prevent building damage caused by subsidence.
17. The city's infrastructure suffered from ground subsidence.
18. Subsidence can result from excessive groundwater extraction.
19. The insurance covered damage caused by subsidence.
20. Monitoring equipment helps detect signs of subsidence early.
21. The sinkhole formed as a result of subsidence in the area.
22. Land subsidence poses risks to urban development.
23. Proper construction techniques can mitigate the risk of subsidence.
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Prefix sub-, Suffix -ence, SAT 3 (Scholastic Assessment Test), Change and Transformation, Geography and Topography
decline,depression,descent
caving,collapse,drop,lowering,settling,shrinkage,sinking,slumping
Synonyms for subsidence
Quiz categories containing subsidence
sinking, rising, elevation, uplift