Centuryeroded

Centuryeroded is a neologism used in geology, geomorphology, archaeology, and heritage conservation to describe surfaces, landscapes, or artefacts that show erosion features and weathering that have accumulated predominantly within the last century, or on century-scale timescales. The term emphasizes the recency of the processes, contrasting with longer-term, millennial or geological weathering. It is not a formal radiometric age, but a descriptive label applied when evidence from historical records, repeat measurements, or dating techniques supports a relatively young exposure or alteration.

In practice, centuryeroded surfaces are identified where surface changes can be linked to processes acting within the past hundred years. Characteristics commonly associated with centuryeroded surfaces include increased surface roughness and micro-pitting, loss of fine-grained materials, patination or discoloration indicating recent weathering, and clear differentiation from underlying undisturbed material in contexts where historical data are available. Factors contributing to century-scale erosion include freeze–thaw cycling, abrasion, fluctuating humidity, pollution-related chemical weathering, and biological activity.

Assessment typically combines qualitative observation with quantitative methods such as repeat photography, terrestrial laser scanning, and dating approaches that can constrain exposure history in decades to a few centuries. These may include historical documentation, dendrochronology where applicable, and luminescence dating within relevant ranges. The term remains informal and its use varies by discipline; some researchers prefer to frame findings strictly in terms of age ranges or rate-based estimates.

See also erosion; weathering; urban geomorphology; historical geology; conservation science.