Wegener hypothesis

noun

We·​ge·​ner hypothesis
ˈvāgənə(r)-
: a hypothesis in geology : the existing continents were originally one land area of which portions have separated and since Carboniferous time have slowly drifted apart moving on a plastic substratum

Word History

Etymology

after Alfred L. Wegener †1930 German geophysicist

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

  1. Expanded definitions
  2. Detailed etymologies
  3. Advanced search tools
  4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now

Dictionary Entries Near Wegener hypothesis

Cite this Entry

“Wegener hypothesis.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Wegener%20hypothesis. Accessed 22 Dec. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!