geology
n.-
1 the scientific study (n.) B2 Upper Intermediate Sciencethe science that studies the Earth's history, its rocks, and how it was formed.
the scientific discipline concerned with the physical structure and substance of the Earth, its history, and the processes that act on it.
ExampleShe decided to study geology because she was fascinated by how mountains are formed.
ExampleModern geology relies heavily on plate tectonics to explain the distribution of fossils and the formation of mountain ranges across different continents.
UsageUncountable when referring to the academic field of study.
- earth science
-
2 rock structure of an area (n.) C1 Advanced Technical Sciencethe specific types of rocks and soil found in a particular place.
the geological features or rock formations of a specific region or area.
ExampleThe geology of this island is mostly volcanic rock and black sand.
ExampleThe local geology consists primarily of limestone, which has led to the formation of extensive cave systems throughout the valley.
UsageCan be used as a countable noun when comparing different regions.
- rock formation
- terrain
From geo- + -logy, partly after Renaissance Latin geōlogia, from Ancient Greek γεω- (geō-, “earth”) + Latin -logia (“the study of”), from Ancient Greek -λογία (-logía).
- Noungeologist
- Noungeology
- Adjectivegeologic
- Adjectivegeological