superincumbence

A geologist points to a layer of rock showing superincumbence in a cliff face.

Definition

• Noun: The state or condition of lying or resting upon something; the quality of being situated above and pressing down upon something else.

Usage Examples

• (The condition of the snow lying heavily on top of the roof.)
• (The state of upper rock masses resting upon lower ones.)

Advanced Usage

• "Superincumbence of weight": The pressure exerted by something that lies directly above.
  • The superincumbence of weight from the upper floors must be considered in architectural design. (The downward force from above.)

Variants and Related Words

• Superincumbent (adj): lying or resting on something else; situated above.

  • The superincumbent layer of soil was rich in nutrients. (The layer of soil lying on top.)

• Superincumbency (n): an alternative spelling of "superincumbence," with the same meaning.

  • The superincumbency of the debris made excavation difficult. (The state of debris lying on top.)

Synonyms

• Overlying: lying directly above.
• Superimposition: the act of placing one thing over another.
• Supraposition: the condition of being placed above.

Related Idioms