Subsidence

Meaning

Gradual sinking of the ground surface due to removal of underground material such as water, minerals, or oil

Origin / Etymology

Latin subsidere — to sink down, settle

Synonyms

Sinking Settlement Ground depression

Antonyms

Uplift Elevation

Example Sentence

"Excessive groundwater extraction caused land subsidence across 6 million sq km globally."

🎯 UPSC Usage

Use in GS1 Geography and GS3 Environment answers on groundwater depletion, urban planning, and disaster risk.

Relevant Subjects

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