rhizoverbBeta
DictionaryhorizonGeological layer
noun

horizon

A distinct layer in soil or rock.

The soil profile shows a dark upper horizon.

Etymology
horizonGreekto bound

The Greek ancestor concerns a boundary. In geology and soil science, horizon applies the idea of a recognizable level or boundary to a distinct layer within a sequence.

More examples

  • The geologist identified a distinctive rock horizon.
  • Roots spread through the surface horizon.
  • The sample came from a lower soil horizon.

Forms

horizon · horizons

Similar words

stratum
A layer, especially of rock or sediment.
layer
The ordinary broad word.