Centroclinal

/ˌsɛntroʊˈklaɪnəl/ adjective

Definition

Describes rock layers or geological formations that dip or slope toward a central point.

Etymology

From Latin 'centrum' (center) + Greek 'klinein' (to slope or lean), literally meaning 'sloping toward the center'.

Kelly Says

Geologists use this term to understand how ancient rock layers buckled and bent—imagine pushing the edges of a tray toward the middle, and you've got a centroclinal structure!

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.