The branch of science that studies the mechanical properties and behavior of earth materials, soil, and rock, especially in engineering and construction.
From Greek 'geo-' (earth) and English 'mechanics' (from Greek 'mechanika,' the science of machines and forces). This modern technical term combines Earth science with physics, emerging in the 20th century as engineering became more sophisticated.
Geomechanics is why skyscrapers don't sink and tunnels don't collapse—engineers use it to understand exactly how Earth materials will behave under tremendous stress!
Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.