C1adjectivesciencenature
US/tekˈtɑː.nɪk/
UK/tekˈtɒn.ɪk/
relating to the large moving plates that form the surface of the Earth
In context
Most earthquakes happen where two tectonic plates meet.
The Himalayas were formed by tectonic activity millions of years ago.
Scientists use satellites to track slow tectonic movement across the region.
Words that go with tectonic
adjective + noun
- tectonic plateEach tectonic plate moves only a few centimeters a year.
- tectonic activityThe island has a lot of tectonic activity.
- tectonic movementTectonic movement can raise mountains.
- tectonic boundaryThe city sits on a tectonic boundary.
- tectonic shiftA tectonic shift in the market changed how people shop.