unconformity

noun

un·​con·​for·​mi·​ty ˌən-kən-ˈfȯr-mə-tē 

1

a

: lack of continuity in deposition between rock strata in contact corresponding to a period of nondeposition, weathering, or erosion

b

: the surface of contact between unconformable strata

2

archaic : lack of conformity

Examples of unconformity in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

In 1788, the scientist John Playfair accompanied Hutton to one such unconformity, at Siccar Point, on the east coast of Scotland. — Lane Sainty, USA TODAY, 24 Nov. 2024

The unconformity, or ‘time gap,’ demonstrates that years of history are missing. — Liam Courtney-Davies, Discover Magazine, 14 Nov. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1600, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Rhymes for unconformity

• disconformity
• nonconformity
• uniformity
• conformity
• deformity
• enormity
• nonuniformity