1. n. []

The physical process by which sediments are consolidated, resulting in the reduction of pore space as grains are packed closer together. As layers of sediment accumulate, the ever increasing overburden pressure during burial causes compaction of the sediments, loss of pore fluids and formation of rock as grains are welded or cemented together.

See related terms: abnormal pressure,  cementation,  compaction correction,  diagenesis,  differential compaction,  geopressure,  lithification,  pore pressure,  rhombohedral packing,  sedimentary