Meaning & Definition of word "Glacial"

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    Glacial

    /ˈɡleɪ.ʃəl/

    adjective:

    • 1. Relating to or derived from a glacier.
      • Example: The glacial landscape was marked by deep valleys and towering peaks.
    • 2. Extremely cold; icy.
      • Example: She stepped outside into the glacial winds that swept across the mountain.
    • 3. Characterized by a slow-moving or sluggish quality; extremely slow.
      • Example: The project's progress was glacial, stretching on for years without significant changes.
    • 4. Emotionally cold or unfriendly.
      • Example: His glacial demeanor made it difficult for others to approach him.

    Etymology

    Derived from Middle French 'glaciaire' meaning 'of ice', from Latin 'glacies' meaning 'ice'.

    Common Phrases and Expressions

    glacial pace:

    A very slow speed or rate of progress.

    glacial period:

    A geological time frame characterized by glaciations.

    glacial environment:

    An area where glacier activity significantly shapes the land.

    Related Words

    glacier:

    A large mass of ice that moves slowly over land.

    ice:

    The solid form of water.

    frost:

    A thin layer of ice that forms on surfaces.

    Slang Meanings of glacial

    Meaning: Extremely unresponsive or unemotional.

    Example Sentence: Her glacial attitude in meetings was hard to ignore.

    Meaning: Very slow to escalate or advance.

    Example Sentence: The negotiation process was glacial, taking years to reach an agreement.