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Definition of glacial

glacial

/ˈɡleɪ.ʃəl/
gla · cial
Adverb:glacially
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glacial Lexical Profile

glacial Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Relating to, resulting from, or characterized by the presence or action of glaciers or ice sheets.

Example

"Geologists studied the deep glacial valleys carved out during the last ice age."

2

Extremely cold, icy, or freezing in temperature; (figuratively) devoid of warmth, friendliness, or emotion.

Example

"A glacial wind swept across the tundra, forcing the expedition team back into their tents."

3

Moving, progressing, or developing at an extremely slow pace, like that of a glacier.

Example

"The committee's glacial progress on the policy reform frustrated the entire department."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for glacial

• Nearby Words

giving
gizmo
gizzard
glacial
glacially
glacier
glad

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in the mid-17th century from French glacial or Latin glacialis ('icy, frozen'), derived from Latin glacies ('ice').

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Glacial. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/glacial
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