syncline

[ sing-klahyn, sin- ]

noun

, Geology.

1. a synclinal fold.

syncline

/ ˈsɪŋklaɪn /

noun

1. a downward fold of stratified rock in which the strata slope towards a vertical axis Compare anticline

syncline

/ sĭn′klīn′ /

1. A fold of rock layers that slope upward on both sides of a common low point. Synclines form when rocks are compressed by plate-tectonic forces. They can be as small as the side of a cliff or as large as an entire valley.
2. Compare anticline

Derived Forms

• synˈclinal, adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of syncline¹

First recorded in 1870–75; back formation from synclinal

Word History and Origins

Origin of syncline¹

C19: from syn- + Greek klīnein to lean

Example Sentences

When the arch is reversed, like this , it is called a syncline.

From Project Gutenberg

The whole mountain is part of a syncline, the beds dipping into it from the north-west and south-east.

From Project Gutenberg

A downfold, where the strata dip from either side toward the axis of the trough, is called a syncline (Fig. 170).

From Project Gutenberg

Hence the anticline noses out to the north and the syncline to the south.

From Project Gutenberg

In the Bembridge limestone we see the end of the Sandown anticline, and the beginning of the succeeding syncline.

From Project Gutenberg