Definition

Relating to a type of geological formation where layers of rock bend upwards, creating a peak, or to the plane of cell division in plants that is perpendicular to the surface.

Example

The anticlinal structure of the mountain range was evident in the way the rocks were layered.

Conversation

Have you seen how those leaves are growing on the plant?

Yeah, they look really interesting!

I read that their growth pattern is anticlinal, which makes them unique.

That’s cool! It definitely gives them a different look.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Anticlinal → It is formed from "anti-" (meaning against) and "clina" (from Latin "clinare", meaning to incline). The word describes a geological formation where layers of rock are inclined away from a central axis, hence 'against the incline'.

Memory Tip

Think of 'against' ('anti-') the 'incline' ('clina') to remember that 'anticlinal' refers to rock layers that slope away from a central point.

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