Cryosphere

Meaning

The frozen water part of the Earth system, including glaciers, ice caps, permafrost, sea ice, and snow cover

Origin / Etymology

Greek kryos (frost, cold) + sphaira (sphere)

Synonyms

Frozen realm Ice system

Antonyms

Hydrosphere

Example Sentence

"The Himalayan cryosphere acts as a natural reservoir, with snow accumulated over winter melting gradually in spring to feed rivers that sustain nearly two billion people."

🎯 UPSC Usage

Use in GS1 geography and GS3 environment answers on glacial retreat, water security, and climate change, a precise scientific term that demonstrates subject mastery.

Relevant Subjects