Calve

usgb/kæv/
verb

When an iceberg or glacier produces a large piece of ice that breaks away.

The glacier started to calve, causing huge pieces of ice to fall into the ocean.
Visual representation of "calve" - When an iceberg or glacier produces a large piece of ice that breaks away.

Often appears as...

  • glacier calve
  • iceberg calve

Usage tips

Technical

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "calve"
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Natural Events

Use 'calve' to describe natural breaking events in ice formations, not man-made ones.

Illustration for Natural Events
As the temperature rose, we witnessed the glacier calve.
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Geographical Phenomena

'Calve' is mostly used in discussions related to geography or climate change.

Illustration for Geographical Phenomena
Scientists measured how fast the ice shelf would calve each year.
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Passive Observation

When 'calve' is used, it often implies that the event is observed passively, without human interference.

Illustration for Passive Observation
The expedition team recorded the moment the iceberg began to calve.
Visual representation of the word "Calve"

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