varve

Borrowed from Swedish varv (“layer”).

• (UK) IPA^(key): /vɑːv/

• Audio (Southern England):

  (file)

• (US, rhotic) IPA^(key): /vɑɹv/
• Rhymes: -ɑː(ɹ)v

varve (plural varves)

1. (geology) An annual layer of sediment or sedimentary rock.
   • 2011, Chris Stringer, The Origin of Our Species, Penguin, published 2012, page 37:

     A comparable method uses varves […] where spans of time can be measured through counting varves, and also by radiocarbon dating plant or animal residues within the varves.

• varved

• rhythmite