imbricate bedding

geology

Also known as: imbrication

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Last updated

June 29, 2026

Quick Summary

In geology, imbricate bedding refers to a specific arrangement within deposits of flattened or disk-shaped pebbles and cobbles. This structure is characterized by elongated and commonly flattened stones that overlap one another, resembling roofing shingles.1

Imbricate bedding forms in environments with high-velocity currents, such as streambeds, or where strong currents and waves interact with a gently sloping beach, creating beach shingle. This type of bedding is considered a primary sedimentary structure.1

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sedimentary rock
Clast-supported conglomerates
…there is often a distinct imbrication; i.e., flat pebbles overlap in the same direction like roof shingles. Imbrication is upstream on riverbeds and seaward on beaches.
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…there is often a distinct imbrication; i.e., flat pebbles overlap in the same direction like roof shingles. Imbrication is upstream on riverbeds and seaward on beaches.
Read More

sedimentary rock
Types
Imbricate bedding is a shingle structure in a deposit of flattened or disk-shaped pebbles or cobbles (Figure 3). That is to say, elongated and commonly flattened pebbles and cobbles in gravelly sediment are deposited so that they overlap one another like roofing shingles. Imbricate bedding…
Read More
Imbricate bedding is a shingle structure in a deposit of flattened or disk-shaped pebbles or cobbles (Figure 3). That is to say, elongated and commonly flattened pebbles and cobbles in gravelly sediment are deposited so that they overlap one another like roofing shingles. Imbricate bedding…
Read More