subsidence
/səbˈsʌɪd(ə)ns
/ /ˈsʌbsɪd(ə)ns /noun [mass noun]
The gradual caving in or sinking of an area of land: the race was abandoned because of subsidence of the track [as modifier]: subsidence damage...
- The early Cretaceous is characterized by relative quiescence and thermal subsidence following late Jurassic rifting.
- Removal of water from compressible materials such as silt and clay can lead to compaction of the confining unit and subsidence of the land surface.
- In particular, we relate apparent Neogene subsidence to modification of the Shelf's basement architecture.
Synonyms
collapse, caving in, falling in, giving way, sinking, settling
Origin
Mid 17th century: from Latin subsidentia 'sediment', from the verb subsidere (see subside).