noun
subsidence
Subsidence (noun) means a gradual lessening in strength or activity.
noun
1
A gradual lessening in strength or activity.
2
A sinking of the ground or a structure, caused for example by mining, earthquakes, the loss of underground water, or the weight of material piling up above a rock layer.
"In the early hours of April 28, 1953, it was completely blocked by a subsidence, which caused the death of five persons, when a pair of semi-detached houses collapsed into the cavity."
— , Notes and News: Clifton Hill Tunnel, Swinton (1957)
"Iran’s president has claimed Iran has no choice but to move its capital from Tehran to the south of the country due to the city’s over-expansion, the lack of adequate water supplies and the growing threat of subsidence."
— David Wintour, Iran must move its capital from Tehran, says president as water crisis worsens (2025)
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Etymology
Latin subsidens, subsidentis, present participle of subsidere. Equivalent to subside + -ence.
Synonyms
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Rhymes for subsidence
See all rhymes for subsidence →Frequently asked questions
What is the meaning of subsidence?
"subsidence" (noun) means a gradual lessening in strength or activity.
What is another word for subsidence?
Other words for "subsidence" include remission, settling, subsiding, remittal.
What are the different meanings of subsidence?
"subsidence" has 2 main meanings: 1. A gradual lessening in strength or activity; 2. A sinking of the ground or a structure, caused for example by mining, earthquakes, the loss of underground water, or the weight of material piling up above a rock layer.
