1. (geology) a sheet-like mass of rock that has been folded over adjacent strata
   "The geologist identified a large nappe formation in the mountain range"
    
2. The profile of the sheet of water flowing over a dam or similar obstruction
   "The engineers carefully calculated the nappe to ensure proper water flow over the spillway"
    
3. (geometry) half of a double cone
   "The mathematics professor used a nappe to illustrate the concept of conic sections"
    
4. (cooking) thickness of a sauce when it will coat the back of a spoon
   "The chef tested the nappe of the béchamel sauce to ensure it was the right consistency"
    
5. (geology) a large mass of rock thrust over other rocks
   "The nappe formation was evidence of significant tectonic activity"
    
6. (mathematics) a portion of a surface that is continuous and allows movement between any two points without leaving the surface
   "The mathematician studied the properties of the nappe"

Sounds like: nap

Derived forms: nappes

Encyclopedia: Nappe