ClimateAugust 8, 2026
overwintering
OH-ver-win-ter-ing
Definition
The process of surviving the winter season in a dormant or inactive state, typically used to describe how insects and small animals shelter in garden debris.
Etymology
Derived from the Old English word 'oferwintran', combining 'ofer' (over) and 'winter'. It evolved into modern English to describe the act of passing or spending the winter in a specific location.
In the news
The article uses overwintering to explain how leaving fallen leaves in the yard provides necessary refuge for pollinators and beneficial insects during the cold months. It highlights this as a vital practice for maintaining local biodiversity.
Leaving The Leaves Welcomes Wildlife, Preserves Biodiversity
Read the full article ↗E — The Environmental Magazine