loess

What is another word for loess? Here is its meaning, with related words and examples.

Noun — A loose, fine sediment made mostly of silt that has been deposited by the wind.

We haven't recorded synonyms for loess yet. You can still read its full definition, where it comes from, or words that rhyme with it.

How to use loess

The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.

loess deposits layers of loess loess soil a loess plateau

It is a technical geology term, rarely used outside scientific or academic writing.

Etymology

Loess was borrowed from German Löss, meaning yellowish-grey soil, which itself came from an Alemannic German word meaning loose. It shares this root with the German word los and the English word lease.

Full origin of loess →

Frequently asked questions

What is loess?

Loess is a fine, silty sediment that was carried and laid down by the wind.

Where does the word loess come from?

It was borrowed from German, from a word describing yellowish-grey soil that in turn goes back to a term meaning loose.

How is loess formed?

It builds up as windblown silt settles and accumulates over long periods of time.

Nearby words

← Back to the full definition of loess