Definition

Noun: A rockslide is a type of landslide involving the rapid downward movement of a mass of rocks, typically on a steep slope. It is a specific geological event where rocks detach and fall or slide.

Usage

The word "rockslide" is used to describe a specific, often sudden, natural event. It is typically a count noun. * The heavy rains triggered a dangerous rockslide that blocked the mountain pass. * Geologists are studying the area to assess the risk of future rockslides. * The highway was closed due to a rockslide.

Advanced Usage

• "to trigger/cause a rockslide": Describes the action that initiates the event.
  • The earthquake caused a massive rockslide.
• "rockslide debris/zone": Refers to the material left behind or the area affected.
  • Crews worked for days to clear the rockslide debris from the road.

Variants and Related Words

• Landslide (n): A broader term for the downward movement of soil, rock, and debris. A rockslide is a type of landslide.
• Avalanche (n): A rapid flow of snow down a slope. While similar in mechanism, an avalanche specifically involves snow, not rock.
• Rockfall (n): Often used interchangeably with rockslide, though it can imply a more vertical, free-falling motion of individual rocks rather than a sliding mass.

Synonyms

• Rock avalanche
• Debris slide (when the slide contains a mix of rock and soil)

Related Phrases

• "The road is prone to rockslides.": Indicates the location is susceptible to this hazard.
• "A warning was issued for potential rockslides.": Used in safety and weather advisories.

Noun

1. a landslide of rocks