ClimateAugust 26, 2026

geomorphic

jee-oh-MOR-fik

Definition

Relating to the physical form and configuration of the Earth's surface and the processes that shape it.

Etymology

Derived from the Greek words 'ge' (earth) and 'morphe' (form), it entered English in the 19th century to describe the features and processes of landforms.

In the news

The word is used to describe the study of dynamic changes in the landscape, as rock glaciers serve as geomorphic evidence indicating the presence of underlying permafrost.

Scientists map rock glaciers on plateau

Read the full article ↗

China Daily

Related words

alkalinity

A measure of the capacity of a substance, such as seawater, to neutralize acids, often…

Climate

cryospheric

Relating to the cryosphere, which consists of the frozen water parts of the Earth's…

Climate

escarpment

A long, steep slope or cliff at the edge of a plateau or separating areas of land at…

Climate

geohazard

A geological process or phenomenon that may cause loss of life, injury, or damage to…

Climate

kinematic

Relating to the motion of objects or systems without consideration of the forces that…

Climate

overshoot

To exceed a planned or predetermined limit, threshold, or target, specifically referring…

Climate

Learn a word like this every day

Meet one new word every morning.

Newspoken pulls one carefully chosen word from the day’s news — with a clear definition, context, and light review that makes it stick. Get it on your phone.