underthrust

[uhn-der-thruhst]

noun

Geology.

1. a thrust fault in which the footwall moved and the hanging wall did not (overthrust ).

underthrust

/ ˈʌndəˌθrʌst /

noun

1. geology a reverse fault in which the rocks on the lower surface of a fault plane have moved under the relatively static rocks on the upper surface Compare overthrust

Word History and Origins

Origin of underthrust¹

First recorded in 1890–95; under- + thrust

Example Sentences

But we can now see that it's actually the weight of the ocean plates where they underthrust the continents that plays the major role in driving this remarkable system.

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He gave a quick underthrust of his sword, struck him midway of the body and raised the old man completely from the ground.

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