imbrication Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun covering with a design in which one element covers a part of another (as with tiles or shingles)
    lapping; overlapping.

WordNet

Im`bri*ca"tion noun
Etymology
Cf. F. imbrication.
Definitions
  1. An overlapping of the edges, like that of tiles or shingles; hence, intricacy of structure; also, a pattern or decoration representing such a structure.

Webster 1913