plate tectonics
noun
plural in form but singular in construction
1
: a theory in geology: the lithosphere of the earth is divided into a small number of plates which float on and travel independently over the mantle and much of the earth's seismic activity occurs at the boundaries of these plates
2
: the process and dynamics of tectonic plate movement
also
: a similar process on a body other than earth compare continental drift
Examples of plate tectonics in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
On our planet, rubies are made in the extreme heat and pressure of Earth’s crust as a result of plate tectonics.
—
Adam Kovac, Scientific American, 12 May 2026
The planet no longer has active plate tectonics and only experienced more significant geological activity in its distant past.
—Ryan Brennan, Miami Herald, 27 Apr. 2026
Mars no longer has active plate tectonics.
—Ryan Brennan, Kansas City Star, 27 Apr. 2026
Mars no longer has active plate tectonics and only experienced more significant geological activity in its distant past.
—Ryan Brennan
april 27, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 27 Apr. 2026
See All Example Sentences for plate tectonics
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
show current usage.
Read More
Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors.
Send us feedback.
Adam Kovac, Scientific American, 12 May 2026
The planet no longer has active plate tectonics and only experienced more significant geological activity in its distant past.
—Ryan Brennan, Miami Herald, 27 Apr. 2026
Mars no longer has active plate tectonics.
—Ryan Brennan, Kansas City Star, 27 Apr. 2026
Mars no longer has active plate tectonics and only experienced more significant geological activity in its distant past.
—Ryan Brennan
april 27, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 27 Apr. 2026
See All Example Sentences for plate tectonics
Cite this Entry
“Plate tectonics.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/plate%20tectonics. Accessed 22 May. 2026.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
