Word
weathering
Phoneticsweath·er·ing, stress on the first syllable
US/ˈwɛðɝɪŋ/
UK/wˈɛðəɹɪŋ/
Definition
v. to break down or wear away a surface over a long time because of the weather. It is often used to describe how rocks or buildings change because of rain, wind, or heat.
v. to undergo the gradual wearing away or decomposition of a surface or structure caused by exposure to the elements. Often used in geological or architectural contexts to describe the physical effects of erosion.
Examples
“The stone walls are weathering badly after years of rain.”
“The ancient temple is weathering due to the constant exposure to the salty sea air and strong coastal winds.”
“Geologists study the weathering of rock formations to understand how the landscape has changed over millions of years, providing clues about the planet's past climate conditions.”
Examples
simple
“The stone walls are weathering badly after years of rain.”
contextual
“The ancient temple is weathering due to the constant exposure to the salty sea air and strong coastal winds.”
complex
“Geologists study the weathering of rock formations to understand how the landscape has changed over millions of years, providing clues about the planet's past climate conditions.”
Real-World Examples
“Geoscientists have long recognized that weathering of silicate rocks naturally removes carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.” “Over time, the increased breaking down of rocks in the warmer climate, known as weathering, gradually pulled carbon from the air , storing it in marine sediments.” “Bites often leave punctures or furrows in bone, but disease, insects, weathering, and erosion can create similar features.” Etymology
From Middle English wederyng, equivalent to weather + -ing.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Domains
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.C1 AdvancedIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.7.0–8.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 5.0–5.595–113TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.945–990
- Frequency
- Occasional
- Level
- C1 · Advanced
- Updated
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QR code
englishreference.com/q/weathering