Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
footwall
noun
/ˈfʊt.wɔːl/
Definition
The block of rock that lies beneath an inclined fault, particularly in geological contexts.
Examples
- A miner found valuable minerals while exploring the footwall of the mine.
- The footwall plays an important role in understanding the overall structure of the geological formation.
- When studying faults, geologists often examine both the footwall and the hanging wall for signs of movement.
Meaning
In geology, the footwall refers to the lower side of a fault, where the rock has moved downward in relation to the hanging wall.
Synonyms
- None specifically, but in some contexts, it may relate to ‘lower block’ or ‘supporting wall.’
