fault line

noun

, Geology.

1. the intersection of a fault with the surface of the earth or other plane of reference.

fault line

noun

1. Also calledfault plane geology the surface of a fault fracture along which the rocks have been displaced
2. a potentially disruptive division or area of contention

   Europe remains the main fault line in the Tory Party

Word History and Origins

Origin of fault line¹

First recorded in 1865–70

Related Words

• rift