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crevasse

noun

/krəˈvæs/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of crevasse

A deep crack or fissure that forms in a glacier or an ice field.
"The expedition team encountered a deep crevasse while traversing the glacier."

Detailed meaning of crevasse

It is typically characterized by steep, sometimes vertical, walls and can range in width from a few centimeters to several meters. Crevasses occur due to the movement and deformation of ice, often caused by the underlying topography or the stresses applied by the glacier's flow. These fractures can pose significant hazards to mountaineers, climbers, and hikers as they can be concealed by snow or ice, making them difficult to detect. Crevasses are more commonly found in areas of glaciers where the ice is subjected to tension or areas where the glacier flows over irregular terrain. These natural formations serve as a reminder of the dynamic and constantly changing nature of glaciers, highlighting the immense forces at play within these icy landscapes.

Example sentences containing crevasse

1. The mountaineer cautiously crossed the crevasse using a rope and safety equipment.
2. The climber's foot slipped, and he narrowly avoided falling into the icy crevasse.
3. The guide warned the group to stay away from the crevasse due to its unstable nature.
4. The rescue team had to navigate through a maze of crevasses to reach the stranded hiker.
5. The mountaineers carefully probed the crevasse with an ice axe to assess its depth.
6. The glacier's surface was riddled with hidden crevasses, requiring constant vigilance.

History and etymology of crevasse

The noun 'crevasse' has its etymological roots in the French language, specifically from the Old French word 'crevace' or 'crevasse,' which meant a crack or fissure. This Old French term, in turn, can be traced back to the Vulgar Latin word 'crepacia,' related to 'crepare,' meaning 'to crack' or 'to creak.' The etymology of 'crevasse' emphasizes the idea of a deep crack or fissure, particularly in the context of glaciers or ice fields. This term aptly captures the image of the ice splitting apart and forming gaping chasms, highlighting the inherent danger and natural processes associated with these icy formations.

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Further usage examples of crevasse

1. The explorer marveled at the stunning blue hue of the crevasse's icy walls.
2. The climber managed to bridge the crevasse by leaping across with a running start.
3. The team set up camp near a towering crevasse, providing a breathtaking view of the glacial landscape.
4. The adventurers descended into the crevasse to study its unique ice formations.
5. The experienced mountaineer taught the novices how to use crampons to safely navigate crevassed terrain.
6. The mountaineers crossed a treacherous crevasse on their ascent.
7. A hidden crevasse posed a danger to the expedition.
8. The guide warned of crevasses lurking beneath the pristine snow.
9. Climbing gear is essential to navigate icy crevasses safely.
10. They secured themselves with ropes to cross the gaping crevasse.
11. The explorers marveled at the beauty of the glacial crevasses.
12. Falling into a crevasse is a mountaineer's worst nightmare.
13. The deep crevasse split the glacier in two.
14. The team's expertise helped them bridge the dangerous crevasse.
15. Ice axes are vital tools for testing crevasse stability.
16. The crevasse's icy walls glistened in the morning sun.
17. His foot slipped near the crevasse's edge, but he regained balance.
18. They navigated a labyrinth of crevasses to reach the summit.
19. A crevasse rescue mission was launched to save the trapped climber.
20. The crevasse's depths held secrets of ancient ice formations.
21. Snow bridges can be unstable, concealing crevasses below.
22. She gazed into the crevasse, awestruck by its sheer depth.
23. Mountaineers must undergo crevasse rescue training for safety.
24. A crevasse map was essential for their glacier trek.
25. Falling into a crevasse is a chilling mountaineering hazard.