1. n. [Geology]

Continental shelf, or the area at the edges of a continent from the shoreline to a depth of 200 m [660 ft], where the continental slope begins. The shelf is commonly a wide, flat area with a slight seaward slope. The term is sometimes used as a for platform.

Alternate Form: continental shelf

See related terms: bathyal,  deepwater play,  glauconite,  neritic,  platform