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rift valley

noun

Definition of rift valley

  1. :  an elongated valley formed by the depression of a block of the earth's crust between two faults or groups of faults of approximately parallel orientation

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First Known Use of rift valley

1894

RIFT VALLEY Defined for English Language Learners

rift valley

noun

Definition of rift valley for English Language Learners

  • geology : a long, steep valley formed when two parallel rifts form in the Earth's crust and the land between them sinks

Learn More about rift valley

  1. Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about rift valley

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