laterization

[ lat-er-uh-zey-shuh n ]
/ ˌlæt ər əˈzeɪ ʃən /

noun Geology.

the weathering process by which rock is changed to laterite.

Scientific definitions for laterization

laterization
[ lăt′ə-rĭ-zāshən ]

The weathering process by which soils and rocks are depleted of soluble substances, such as silica-rich and alkaline components and enriched with insoluble substances, such as hydrated aluminum and iron oxides. Laterization is especially common in tropical regions that have a pronounced dry season and a water table that is close to the surface.