What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
icecap
Example
The polar icecaps are melting due to global warming. [icecap: noun]
Example
The mountaintop was covered in an icecap all year round. [icecap: adjective]
glacier
Example
The glacier carved out the valley over thousands of years. [glacier: noun]
Example
We went hiking on the glacier and saw some amazing ice formations. [glacier: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Glacier is more commonly used than icecap in everyday language. Glacier is a more versatile word and can be used in various contexts, while icecap is more specific and less common.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between icecap and glacier?
Both icecap and glacier are formal words and are typically used in scientific or academic contexts. However, glacier is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.