Definition

A type of natural disaster where a large amount of wet earth and debris flows down a slope, often caused by heavy rain or melting snow.

Example

The heavy rain caused a mudflow that swept through the village, damaging homes and roads.

Conversation

Did you hear about the mudflow that happened near the river last night?

Yeah, I saw it on the news; it looked really dangerous.

I can't believe how quickly the mudflow can happen after heavy rain.

I know, right? It’s a real reminder to stay alert during storms.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Mudflow is formed from "mud" (from Old English *mudd*, meaning wet earth or soft soil) and "flow" (from Old English *flowan*, meaning to flow or run). The word describes the movement of wet earth or soil that flows down a slope.

Memory Tip

Think of 'wet earth' ('mud') that 'flows' ('flow') down a slope — that's what a mudflow is.

Visually Confused Words