subduction

noun

sub·​duc·​tion (ˌ)səb-ˈdək-shən How to pronounce subduction (audio)
: the action or process in plate tectonics of the edge of one crustal plate descending below the edge of another
subduct
(ˌ)səb-ˈdəkt How to pronounce subduction (audio)
verb

Examples of subduction 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.
The breakup of Columbia aligns with the first signs of lower-temperature subduction. — Scott K. Johnson, ArsTechnica, 26 May 2026 Deep beneath the Pacific, along a subduction zone where one tectonic plate dives beneath another, a strain that had built up over decades was released in seconds. — Stefanie Waldek, Space.com, 7 Apr. 2026 Unlike the subduction zones found in Chile and Japan, Cascadia is relatively silent. — Julia Jacobo, ABC News, 14 May 2026 These often occur when one of two converging tectonic plates slides underneath the other, creating subduction zones. — Chad De Guzman, Time, 9 Dec. 2025 See All Example Sentences for subduction

Word History

Etymology

French, from Late Latin subduction-, subductio withdrawal, from Latin subducere to withdraw, from sub- + ducere to draw — more at tow entry 1

First Known Use

1970, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of subduction was in 1970

Rhymes for subduction

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Browse Nearby Words

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Cite this Entry

“Subduction.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/subduction. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on subduction

Nglish: Translation of subduction for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about subduction

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