1. the process of stripping away or removing a natural covering, such as soil, vegetation, or rock, especially by erosion or weathering
Usage: commonly used in geology and earth science
2. the act of laying bare or exposing something that was previously covered or hidden
Usage: formal or technical usage

Examples

• The denudation of the hillside by heavy rains left the bedrock exposed.
• Glacial denudation carved deep valleys into the landscape over thousands of years.
• The denudation of forests has led to increased soil erosion in the region.
• Coastal denudation from wave action threatens the stability of the cliffs.
• Scientists study denudation rates to understand how mountains are worn down.
• The denudation of vegetation by overgrazing has damaged the ecosystem.
• Tectonic uplift is often balanced by denudation of the overlying rock layers.