'Geosynclinal' definitions:

Definition of 'Geosynclinal'

From: GCIDE
  • Geosynclinal \Ge`o*syn*cli"nal\, n. [Gr. ge`a, gh^, the earth + E. synclinal.] (Geol.) the downward bend or subsidence of the earth's crust, which allows of the gradual accumulation of sediment, and hence forms the first step in the making of a mountain range; -- opposed to geanticlinal. [1913 Webster]