# outcrop

/ˈaʊtkɹɒp/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/outcrop
Updated: 2026-05-28

## Definition

a part of a rock formation that sticks out from the ground. You can see it because the soil or sand has worn away around it.

For teachers: a portion of a rock formation that is exposed at the surface of the earth. Often used in geological contexts to describe a visible section of bedrock.

## Examples

- The hikers climbed over a large outcrop of granite.
- The geologist examined the sandstone outcrop to determine the age of the surrounding sedimentary layers.
- While the valley floor is covered in fertile soil, the steep cliffs reveal a massive outcrop of limestone that has resisted erosion for millions of years.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.