IPA: /tɛkˈtɒnɪk/
KK: /tɛkˈtɑnɪk/
Relating to the structure and movement of the Earth's crust, often causing earthquakes and forming mountains.
The tectonic plates beneath the Earth's surface are constantly shifting.
Tectonic → It is formed from "tecton" (from Greek "tekton", meaning builder or carpenter) and the suffix "-ic" (meaning pertaining to). The word "tectonic" refers to the processes and features related to the building or structure of the Earth's crust.
Think of a 'builder' ('tekton') when you hear 'tectonic' — it relates to the building and structure of the Earth's surface.