Definition

A situation in geology where rock layers are parallel but there is a break in the sequence, or a general term for not conforming to a standard or expectation.

Example

The disconformity in the rock layers indicated a significant geological event in the area.

Conversation

I learned about disconformity in my geology class today.

Oh really? What does that mean exactly?

It's when rock layers are parallel but there's a break in the sequence.

That sounds interesting! Geology has so many cool concepts.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Disconformity → It is formed from "dis-" (meaning apart or away) and "conformity" (from Latin "conformare", meaning to shape or form together). The word describes a state of being apart from or not in agreement with a certain form or standard.

Memory Tip

Think of being 'apart' ('dis-') from a certain 'form' or 'shape' ('conformity') — that's why disconformity means not conforming to a standard.

Visually Confused Words