formation

Word parts

form + -ation

Pronunciation

• (US) IPA ^(key): /fɔr.meɪ.ʃən/
• (UK) IPA ^(key): /fə(r).meɪ.ʃən/

• Audio (US)

  (file)

• Hyphenation: for‧ma‧tion

Noun

Singular formation

Plural formations

1. Something having structure or form.

   The chorus boys and girls were put through a variety of formations in the new Andrew Lloyd Webber musical.

   The band members created many interesting formations during half-time.

2. The act of building a group or structure.
3. (geology) A rock or face of a mountain.
4. (military) A grouping of military units or smaller formations under a command, such as a brigade, division, wing, etc.
5. (military) An arrangement of moving troops, ships, or aircraft, such as a wedge, line abreast, or echelon. Often "in formation".
6. The process of influencing or guiding a person to a deeper understanding of a particular vocation.

Related words

• form

Synonyms

• (military grouping of units): battle group, brigade group, task force, combat team
• (military arrangement of forces): tactical formation, battle formation