formation
UK: fɔːˈmeɪʃən | US: fɔːrˈmeɪʃən
n. the act or process of forming or being formed
n. a particular arrangement or pattern (e.g., of troops, rocks, or words)
n. a structure or shape resulting from arrangement
The word "formation" derives from Latin formatio, from formare ("to shape, mold"), itself from forma ("form, shape"). The suffix -ation converts verbs into nouns indicating an action or process. The morpheme "form" has retained its core meaning of shaping or structuring across centuries, appearing in words like "transform" and "reform." The logical progression reflects how physical or abstract structures (e.g., geological layers, military units) are "shaped" into organized patterns.
The formation of ice crystals depends on temperature and humidity.
The soldiers marched in a tight formation.
Geologists study rock formations to understand Earth's history.
The team's winning formation surprised their opponents.
Language formation in children follows predictable stages.