In geology, the group of environmental features that have contributed to a single terrane or formation: the pressure, temperature, water, and organic deposits that contributed to it.

Rocks under the same conditions may be differently affected because they have different internal compositions, but they are part of the same facies.

In archaeology, a distinctive phase of a prehistoric cultural tradition.

Fa"ci*es (?), n. [L., from, face. See Face.]

1.

The anterior part of the head; the face.

2. Biol.

The general aspect or habit of a species, or group of species, esp. with reference to its adaptation to its environment.

3. Zool.

The face of a bird, or the front of the head, excluding the bill.

Facies Hippocratica. Med. See Hippocratic.

© Webster 1913.