origin: [evapo(ration) + transpiration; Latin & Middle English] from Life Sciences / Environmental Science
noun
1. Combined processes of evaporation, sublimation, and transpiration of the water from the earth's surface into the atmosphere; the return of water vapour to the atmosphere by evaporation from land and water surfaces and by the transpiration of vegetation.
2. Total amount of water transferred from the earth to the atmosphere (see also: flyoff, water loss).
3. A word found upon a "Living Roof" placard at the California Academy of Sciences.
