Formation

Definition

Formation pertains to the process of being formed, the act of creating or establishing something, or the manner in which something is arranged.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /fɔrˈmeɪʃən/
• Respelling: for-MAY-shun (with "for" as in "fort," "MAY" as in "day," and "shun" as in "cushion")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /fɔːˈmeɪʃən/
• Respelling: faw-MAY-shun (with "faw" as in "fort," "MAY" as in "day," and "shun" as in "cushion")

In both dialects, "formation" places the primary stress on the second syllable, "MAY." The pronunciation is similar across both American and British English, focusing on the clear articulation of "for-MAY-shun" in American English and "faw-MAY-shun" in British English.

Etymology

The word "formation" comes from the Latin word "formatio," which means "a shaping or forming," derived from "formare," meaning "to form or shape." The term was introduced into English in the late 14th century and has since been used to describe the process of creating or arranging something into a specific structure or pattern.

Derivatives

• Form (verb/noun)
• Formative (adjective)
• Reform (verb/noun)
• Conformation (noun)
• Formationist (noun, rare)

Synonyms

• Configuration
• Structure
• Arrangement

Antonyms

• Destruction
• Dissolution
• Disbandment

Usage

"Formation" is commonly used in various fields, including geology, biology, military, and education. In geology, it refers to a specific layer of rock or sediment with distinct characteristics. In biology, it can describe the development of cells or organisms. In a military context, "formation" refers to the arrangement of troops or equipment in a specific pattern. In general usage, it refers to the process of creating or arranging something into a specific shape or structure.

Related Terms

• Construct
• Organization
• Design
• Assemble
• Layout

Detailed Definition

Noun

• The Act or Process of Forming or Creating: Refers to the process by which something comes into being or is arranged into a particular structure.
  • Example: The formation of the Earth’s crust took millions of years.

• The Manner in Which Something is Arranged: Refers to the specific way in which parts are combined or organized into a whole.
  • Example: The team practiced the formation they would use during the game.

• A Structured Pattern or Arrangement: Describes a specific arrangement of objects, people, or geological features.
  • Example: The birds flew in a V formation across the sky.

• A Geological Formation: In geology, it refers to a specific layer of rock or sediment that is distinct from others in terms of composition or age.
  • Example: The Grand Canyon showcases multiple rock formations from different geological periods.