ClimateAugust 26, 2026

periglacial

PER-uh-GLAY-see-uhl

Definition

Relating to or occurring in areas adjacent to glaciers or ice sheets, characterized by intense frost action and permafrost conditions.

Etymology

Derived from the Greek 'peri-' meaning 'around' and the Latin 'glacies' meaning 'ice'. The term was coined in the early 20th century to describe landscape features shaped by the freezing and thawing processes found on the edges of glacial regions.

In the news

The article uses the term to describe the specific cold, high-altitude environment where rock glaciers form and move. Understanding these periglacial landforms is vital for mapping the plateau's frozen water reserves.

Scientists map rock glaciers on plateau

Read the full article ↗

China Daily

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