Based on etymological information, what does the word "tectonic" mean?
English · High School · Mon Jan 18 2021
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The word "tectonic" comes from the Ancient Greek word "τεκτονικός" (tektonikos), meaning "pertaining to building." It stems from the noun "τέκτων" (tekton), which refers to a builder or a carpenter. In modern usage, "tectonic" relates to the structure and movement of the Earth's crust and the large-scale processes that take place within it. These processes, such as earthquakes, volcanic activity, mountain-building, and the drifting of continents, are what we study under the field of "tectonics." Thus, etymologically, "tectonic" has evolved from a general term associated with construction to a specific scientific term used in geology to describe the physical forces and structures of the Earth's surface.