Outcrop (noun)

A portion of a rock formation or stratigraphic unit that is exposed above the surrounding surface of the Earth.

Origin:

Late 19th century; earliest use found in the scientific american. from out- + crop.

Examples:

1. The outcrop of granite formed the highest point in the region.
2. The geologist studied the minerals in the outcrop.
3. The outcrop provided clues about the geological history of the area.
4. The hiker was thrilled to come across the unusual rock formations in the outcrop.
5. The geology students went on a field trip to study the outcrop in detail.