weathering

weath·er·ing  (wr-ng)

n.

Any of the chemical or mechanical processes by which rocks exposed to the weather undergo changes in character and break down.

---

weathering

Noun

the breakdown of rocks by the action of the weather

---

weathering  (wthr-ng)

Any of the chemical or mechanical processes by which rocks exposed to the weather undergo chemical decomposition and physical disintegration. Although weathering usually occurs at the Earth's surface, it can also occur at significant depths, for example through the percolation of groundwater through fractures in bedrock. It usually results in changes in the color, texture, composition, or hardness of the affected rocks.