geology

noun

ge·​ol·​o·​gy jē-ˈä-lə-jē 

plural geologies

1

a

: a science that deals with the history of the earth and its life especially as recorded in rocks

b

: a study of the solid matter of a celestial body (such as the moon)

2

: geologic features

the geology of Arizona

3

: a treatise on geology

geologist

jē-ˈä-lə-jist 

noun

Examples of geology in a Sentence

learning about the geology of Hawaii

Recent Examples on the Web

But analysts said the Smackover has more potential as few places have similar geology. — Jordan Blum, Fortune, 7 Nov. 2026

This atmospheric conductivity can vary with sunlight and auroral activity, while ground conductivity depends on local geology and moisture levels. — Mark Moldwin, The Conversation, 4 Nov. 2026

Distinguishing life from geology Earth offers an example of why this distinction is important. — Neetika Walter, Interesting Engineering, 3 Nov. 2026

Among other problems, the Eel River Canyon’s unstable geology is notorious for landslides that sent train cars careening into the water. — Lila Seidman, Los Angeles Times, 19 Oct. 2026

Word History

Etymology

New Latin geologia, from ge- + -logia -logy

First Known Use

1735, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Rhymes for geology

• ology
• aetiology
• anthropology
• archaeology
• archeology
• audiology
• cardiology
• climatology
• cohomology
• cosmetology
• criminology
• demonology

Kids Definition

geology

noun

ge·​ol·​o·​gy jē-ˈäl-ə-jē 

plural geologies

1

a

: a science that deals with the history of the earth and its life especially as recorded in rocks

b

: a study of the features of a heavenly body (as the moon)

2

: the geologic features (as mountains or plains) of an area

geologic

ˌjē-ə-ˈläj-ik

adjective

or geological

-i-kəl

geologically

-i-k(ə-)lē

adverb

geologist

jē-ˈäl-ə-jəst 

noun