noun
lithosphere
LITH-uh-sfeer
Lithosphere (noun) means the hard outermost shell of the Earth, split into large tectonic plates. Example: “The lithosphere is broken into large tectonic plates.”
noun
1
geology The hard outermost shell of the Earth, split into large tectonic plates.
"The lithosphere is broken into large tectonic plates."
"Geologists study how the lithosphere behaves under stress."
"The crust forms part of the lithosphere."
2
geology A similar rigid outer layer on another planet.
"Scientists compare the lithosphere of Mars with that of the Earth."
"A planet's lithosphere sits above its deeper layers."
How to use lithosphere
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishThe hard outer shell of the Earth, made up of tectonic plates.
When to use it
It is a scientific term used in geology and earth science.
Memory tip
It is one of several 'sphere' words for Earth's layers, alongside atmosphere and hydrosphere.
Trace the full origin ↓
Easily confused with
asthenosphere
crust →
Common pairings
oceanic lithosphere
continental lithosphere
the Earth's lithosphere
tectonic plates of the lithosphere
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Fill the gap
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The _____ is broken into large tectonic plates.
Etymology
The word was formed in English from the prefix litho- and the ending -sphere.
Rhymes for lithosphere
See all rhymes for lithosphere →Frequently asked questions
What is the lithosphere?
It is the hard outermost shell of the Earth, split into large tectonic plates.
Does the lithosphere include the crust?
Yes, the crust is part of the lithosphere.
Do other planets have a lithosphere?
The word can be used for any similar rigid layer on another planet.
What is the meaning of lithosphere?
"lithosphere" (noun) means the hard outermost shell of the Earth, split into large tectonic plates.
