weathering

noun

weath·​er·​ing
ˈwet͟h-riŋ,
ˈwe-t͟hə- How to pronounce weathering (audio)
: the action of the weather conditions in altering the color, texture, composition, or form of exposed objects
specifically : the physical disintegration and chemical decomposition of earth materials at or near the earth's surface

Examples of weathering in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Indeed, the raw concrete is already showing signs of weathering, with water stains and other irregularities. Jessica Gelt, Los Angeles Times, 25 Oct. 2024 Afterward came eons of natural weathering that sculpted the distinctive stone garden. Roger Naylor, The Arizona Republic, 5 Sep. 2024 Under atmospheric conditions, most minerals are unstable and very susceptible to physical and chemical weathering. David Bressan, Forbes, 31 Oct. 2024 The concrete structure is expected to wear its weathering on its sleeve, so to speak, but the exterior is actually expected to clarify — refine and cure with age — within its first decade or two. Jessica Gelt, Los Angeles Times, 28 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for weathering 

Word History

First Known Use

1548, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of weathering was in 1548

Dictionary Entries Near weathering

Cite this Entry

“Weathering.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/weathering. Accessed 25 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

weathering

noun
weath·​er·​ing
ˈwet͟h-(ə-)riŋ
: the action of the forces of nature that changes the color, texture, composition, or form of exposed objects
especially : the physical and chemical breakdown of earth materials at or near the earth's surface
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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