Dip - Definition and Overview

Dip can have many meanings:

• In the context of geology, stratigraphic dip is defined as the maximum angle from the horizontal in the plane of a stratigraphic unit. The direction in which the dip should be measured is known as the dip-direction. If the surface of the unit is not accessible (for instance, only a cross-section of the unit is visible, as in a cliff-face), only the apparent dip can be measured.

• In the field, the dip-direction is commonly identified using either a clinometer, or by pouring water on the surface of the rock(if it is accessible) and observing the direction of flow. For any inclined surface, there will also be two directions of zero-dip. The direction that is anti-clockwise of the dip-direction is known as the strike.

• In Catalan mythology, Dip is an evil demonic dog that drinks people's blood.

• In electronics, DIP is an abbreviation for Dual in-line package, a type of circuit configuration. (See also DIP switch.)

• In the movie Who Framed Roger Rabbit, Dip is a mixture of paint thinners and other noxious chemicals, used by the villain to kill or "erase" cartoon characters.

• In cookery a dip is a type of sauce into which food is dipped. Many dips are also relishes and a good example is guacamole.