Aeolian

/eɪˈoʊliən/ adjective

Definition

Relating to or caused by the wind, especially the erosion, transport, or deposition of material by wind.

Etymology

From 'Aeolus,' the Greek god of winds, + '-ian'. The term has been used in geology and geography since the 19th century to describe wind-driven processes.

Kelly Says

Geologists use 'aeolian' to describe entire landscapes shaped by wind—desert dunes, loess plains, and wind-carved rocks are all 'aeolian' landscapes, meaning wind is the artist sculpting the earth.

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.