adjective
historical GeologyDesignating a stratigraphic stage or series of rocks corresponding to the lowermost Devonian and (originally) the uppermost Silurian; of or relating this stage or series.
noun
historical GeologyChiefly with the. The Downtonian stage; the series of rocks dating from this time.
Origin
Late 19th century. From Downton, the name of a civil parish in the extreme north of Herefordshire, where this stratigraphic stage is found + -ian.
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