snjókúla

Snjókúla is an Icelandic term that translates literally to "snowball." It is most commonly used to refer to a natural phenomenon of snow rolling upon itself, typically on a hillside or in windy conditions, forming a spherical or cylindrical mass of snow. These formations can range in size from a few centimeters to over a meter in diameter. The process requires specific snow conditions, generally a layer of sticky, wet snow on top of a slippery base, combined with wind or gravity to initiate the rolling motion.

In a broader sense, "snjókúla" can also be used metaphorically to describe something that grows larger and more significant as it progresses, accumulating momentum or influence, much like a snowball rolling down a hill. This figurative use is common in everyday conversation and literature. While the literal meaning refers to a physical object made of snow, the metaphorical extension highlights the concept of cumulative growth. The term is not typically associated with any specific cultural traditions beyond its direct meaning and metaphorical application.