cra·ton (kr  t n )n. A large portion of a continental plate that has been relatively undisturbed since the Precambrian era and includes both shield and platform layers. [German Kraton, from Greek kratos, power; see kar- in Indo-European roots.] cra·ton ic (kr -tn k) adj. |
craton [ˈkreɪtən]
n
(Earth Sciences / Geological Science) Geology a stable part of the earth's continental crust or lithosphere that has not been deformed significantly for many millions, even hundreds of millions, of years See shield [7]
[from Greek kratos strength]
cratonic [krəˈtɒnɪk] adj
| craton (krtn) A large portion of a continental plate that has been relatively undisturbed since the Precambrian era and includes both shield and platform layers. |
ThesaurusLegend: Synonyms Related Words Antonyms
| Noun | 1. | craton - the part of a continent that is stable and forms the central mass of the continent; typically Precambrian continent - one of the large landmasses of the earth; "there are seven continents"; "pioneers had to cross the continent on foot" |
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