asthenosphere
noun/æsˈθɛniəˌsfɪr/
Frequency rank: #19,900 most common English word
Meaning
The relatively weak, partially molten layer of the upper mantle on which tectonic plates move.
Example sentence
Tectonic plates float on the asthenosphere, which is the semi-fluid layer of the mantle beneath the lithosphere.
Synonyms & related words
- mantle
- underlayer
Practice this word in the quiz
More words in ranks 19,801–19,900
- eudaimoniaA state of human flourishing, happiness, and well-being, especially as described in Aristotelian ethics.
- molaritythe number of moles of a solute dissolved per liter of solution, used to express concentration.
- oxidizationthe process by which a substance combines with oxygen, often resulting in rust or corrosion.
- ramekinA small individual dish used for baking or serving food.
- refractometerAn optical instrument that measures the refractive index of a substance, used to determine concentration of solutions.
- machinationa secret and cunning scheme or plot intended to harm someone or achieve a selfish goal.
- multipotentHaving the ability to develop into multiple, but not all, cell types or forms.
- epiphyteA plant that grows on another plant for physical support but derives no nutrients from it, getting moisture and nutrients from the air and rain.
- inroadan advance or encroachment into a new area, often at the expense of something else.
- tropismthe growth or movement of an organism in response to an external stimulus, such as light or gravity.