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, The Arizona Republic, 3 Nov. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1600, in the meaning defined at sense 2