Search Dictionary
Definition of outcropping

outcropping

/ˈaʊtˌkrɑː.pɪŋ/
out · crop · ping
Plural:outcroppings
JUMP TO:

outcropping Lexical Profile

outcropping Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A visible exposure of bedrock or ancient superficial deposits projecting through the overlying soil at the surface of the earth.

Example

"The hikers rested on a granite outcropping that overlooked the pine valley below."

2

A sudden, noticeable emergence or outward manifestation of something, such as an idea, trait, or cultural trend.

Example

"The neighborhood's new galleries were an outcropping of the city's broader artistic revival."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for outcropping

• Nearby Words

outcome
outcompete
outcrop
outcropping
outcry
outdance
outdated

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in the 19th century as a verbal noun from the verb 'outcrop', which arose from Scottish and northern English mining terminology ('crop out') referring to a mineral vein emerging at the earth's surface.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Outcropping. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/outcropping
Built for writers, students, and competitive word game players, Wordmom combines an uncluttered English dictionary and thesaurus with fast, pattern-based word finders so you can verify definitions, synonyms, and high-scoring tile plays in one place.
Word Games & Solvers
Word FinderScrabble Word FinderWords With Friends CheatWordle SolverAnagram Solver
Dictionary & Reference
DictionarySynonymsAntonymsWords
Community
Contact UsEditorial PolicyPrivacy PolicyTerms and Conditions
© 2016–2026 Wordmom Network. All rights reserved. Made with for word lovers everywhere.
Disclaimer: SCRABBLE® is a registered trademark. All intellectual property rights in and to the game are owned in the U.S.A. and Canada by Hasbro Inc., and throughout the rest of the world by J.W. Spear & Sons Limited of Maidenhead, Berkshire, England, a subsidiary of Mattel Inc. Mattel and Spear are not affiliated with Hasbro. Words With Friends® is a registered trademark of Zynga Inc. Wordle® is a registered trademark of The New York Times Company. Other referenced game titles and tournament lexicon codes (including NASPA NWL and WESPA/HarperCollins CSW) are trademarks of their respective owners. Wordmom is an independent reference utility for educational and entertainment purposes and is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by Hasbro, Mattel, Spear, Zynga, The New York Times Company, NASPA, WESPA, or HarperCollins Publishers. All game names are referenced strictly under nominative fair use to indicate compatibility.