phreatic adjective. [frɪ'atɪk] L19.
[from Greek phreat-, phrear well, cistern + -IC.]
1. Physical Geography. Pertaining to or designating water below the water-table, esp. that which is capable of movement. Cf. VADOSE. L19.
Caves & Caving Bisa Passage..enters 150ft..of phreatic passage which could possibly re-enter the main streamway.

2. Geology. Designating or pertaining to a volcanic eruption in which steam or mud is expelled as a result of the sudden heating of underground water when it comes into contact with hot magma or rock. E20.

■ phreatomag'matic adjective designating or pertaining to a volcanic eruption in which both steam and magmatic gases are expelled M20.

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