accretionary hypothesis

noun

: any explanation of the origin of the earth that involves the hypothesis of gradual growth by the gravitational infall of solid bodies (as asteroids, planetesimals, or meteorites) compare planetesimal hypothesis

Word History

First Known Use

1905, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of accretionary hypothesis was in 1905

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Dictionary Entries Near accretionary hypothesis

accretional

accretionary hypothesis

accretion borer

See More Nearby Entries 

Cite this Entry

“Accretionary hypothesis.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/accretionary%20hypothesis. Accessed 26 Nov. 2024.

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