1. annual layers of sediment deposited in lakes, consisting of alternating light and dark bands that reflect seasonal changes
Usage: geological

Examples

• Scientists studied the varves in the lake bed to understand climate patterns from thousands of years ago.
• Each pair of varves represents one year of sediment deposition.
• The dark bands in varves typically form during winter months when organic matter settles.
• Researchers counted varves to determine the age of the glacial lake.
• The varves showed clear evidence of drought periods in the region’s history.
• Geologists use varves as a natural calendar to date ancient events.