subduction

[ suh b-duhk-shuh n ]
/ səbˈdʌk ʃən /

noun

an act or instance of subducting; subtraction or withdrawal.
Geology. the process by which collision of the earth's crustal plates results in one plate's being drawn down or overridden by another, localized along the juncture (subduction zone) of two plates.

Origin of subduction

1570–80; < Latin subductiōn-, stem of subductiō pulling up, computation; see subduct, -ion

Example sentences from the Web for subduction

  • The lines with barbs show zones of underthrusting (subduction), where one plate is sliding beneath another.

    Volcanoes |Robert I. Tilling
  • And from hence lastly doth arise the solidity of the section, by addition and subduction.

    The Way To Geometry |Peter Ramus
  • Subduction zones are found where one plate overrides, or subducts, another, pushing it downward into the mantle where it melts.

    Earthquakes |Kaye M. Shedlock
  • There are three types of plate boundaries: spreading zones, transform faults, and subduction zones.

    Earthquakes |Kaye M. Shedlock

British Dictionary definitions for subduction

subduction
/ (səbˈdʌkʃən) /

noun

the act of subducting, esp of turning the eye downwards
geology the process of one tectonic plate sliding under another, resulting in tensions and faulting in the earth's crust, with earthquakes and volcanic eruptions

Scientific definitions for subduction

subduction
[ səb-dŭkshən ]

A geologic process in which one edge of one lithospheric plate is forced below the edge of another. The denser of the two plates sinks beneath the other. As it descends, the plate often generates seismic and volcanic activity (from melting and upward migration of magma) in the overriding plate. Compare obduction.

Other words from subduction

subduct verb