formations

Noun

formation (countable and uncountable, plural formations)

1. The act of assembling a group or structure.
   • Some cloud formation was confirmed and rainfall was observed over some islands.2019, VOA Learning English (public domain)
2. Something possessing structure or form.
3. The process during which something comes into being and gains its characteristics.
4. A grouping of military units or smaller formations under a command, such as a brigade, division, wing, etc.
5. A layer of rock of common origin.
   • Over a broad region, the color of a formation may change.2012, Chinle Miller, In Mesozoic Lands: The Mesozoic Geology of Arches and Canyonlands National Parks, Kindle edition
6. An arrangement of moving troops, ships, or aircraft, such as a wedge, line abreast, or echelon. Often "in formation".

See all 9 meanings of formation