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Definition of terraforming

terraforming

/ˈtɛr.ə.fɔːr.mɪŋ/
ter · ra · form · ing
Plural:terraformings
•
Adjective:terraformable
•
Past Simple:terraformed
•
Past Participle:terraformed
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Present Participle:terraforming
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terraforming Lexical Profile

terraforming Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

The hypothetical or fictional process of deliberately modifying the atmosphere, temperature, surface topography, or ecology of a planet, moon, or other celestial body to make it habitable by Earth-like life.

Example

"The science fiction novel explores the centuries-long project of the terraforming of Mars."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for terraforming

• verb

1

To transform a planet, moon, or other celestial body so that it resembles the Earth and can support human and terrestrial life (present participle of terraform).

Example

"Scientists debated the ethical and technical challenges of terraforming a lifeless world."

• Nearby Words

terraced falls
terracing
terracotta
terraforming
terrain
terrapin
terrarium

Word Origin & Etymology

Coined by American science fiction author Jack Williamson in a 1942 novella published in Astounding Science Fiction, combining Latin 'terra' (earth) with the English verb 'form'.

Cite this Entry

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