Definition

1. Noun:
   • A projecting or protruding mass: Specifically, a natural rock formation that extends outward from a main body, often creating a prominent feature.
   • Something that thrusts outward: More generally, any object or part that juts out or extends forward.

Examples of Usage

• Noun:
  • The climbers carefully navigated the dangerous outthrust of granite.
  • From the boat, we could see a sharp outthrust of the cliff over the water.

Advanced Usage

• Geological Context: In geology, an 'outthrust' often refers to a specific type of outcrop where rock layers have been pushed outward, sometimes by tectonic forces.
  • The mountain's distinctive shape is due to a major outthrust from millions of years ago.

Variants and Related Words

• Outthrust (verb): The act of extending or thrusting outward. (Note: This is a less common usage than the noun form).
  • The pier outthrusts into the bay.
• Outcrop (noun): A similar term for a visible exposure of bedrock or ancient deposits.
• Promontory (noun): A high point of land or rock projecting into a body of water.
• Protrusion (noun): Something that sticks out.

Synonyms

• Projection
• Protuberance
• Jut
• Spur (in geographical contexts)

Antonyms

• Recess
• Indentation
• Inlet
• Cavity

Related Phrases

• Thrust out: To push or extend something outward.
  • The peninsula thrusts out into the ocean.

Noun

1. an outcropping of rock that extends outward