Formation /(fŏr*mā"shŭn)/

For·ma·tion

Formation

n.
  1. The act of giving form or shape to anything; a forming; a shaping.
  2. The manner in which a thing is formed; structure; construction; conformation; form; as, the peculiar formation of the heart.
  3. A substance formed or deposited.
  4. Mineral deposits and rock masses designated with reference to their origin; as, the siliceous formation about geysers; alluvial formations; marine formations. (Geol.)
  5. The arrangement of a body of troops, as in a square, column, etc. (Mil.)