syncline

noun

syn·​cline ˈsin-ˌklīn How to pronounce syncline (audio)
: a trough of stratified rock in which the beds dip toward each other from either side compare anticline

Illustration of syncline

Illustration of syncline
  • cross section of strata showing syncline

Word History

Etymology

back-formation from synclinal

First Known Use

1873, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of syncline was in 1873

Dictionary Entries Near syncline

synclinal valley

syncline

synclinical

See More Nearby Entries 

Cite this Entry

“Syncline.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/syncline. Accessed 30 Nov. 2024.

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Kids Definition

syncline

noun
syn·​cline ˈsin-ˌklīn How to pronounce syncline (audio)
: a place in the earth's crust where the rock layers curve downward compare anticline

More from Merriam-Webster on syncline

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about syncline

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