What does VARVE mean?

Varve 1. Parts of Speech:

Noun

2. Definitions:

• A pair of thin layers of sedimentary rock or sediment, typically of alternating composition, that is deposited in a single year.
• A layer of sedimentary rock or sediment that is deposited in a single year, typically consisting of a summer layer of light-colored silt or sand and a winter layer of dark-colored clay.

3. Pronunciations:

• US: /vɑrv/
• UK: /vɑːv/

4. Origin and Usage:

The word "varve" originated from the Swedish word "varv" meaning "revolution" or "turn". It was first used in the late 19th century to describe the alternating layers of sediment deposited in glacial lakes. Today, it is commonly used in geology to describe the annual layers of sediment deposited in lakes or other bodies of water.

5. Synonyms:

• Annual layer
• Chronostratigraphic unit
• Geochronological unit

6. Related Words:

• Sedum
• Layer
• Straw
• Slate
• Shale

7. Example Sentences:

• The varve record provides a detailed history of past environmental changes.
• The varves in this lake are used to study changes in climate over the past 10,000 years.