1. (

• protein_folding ,
• folding

) the process whereby a protein molecule assumes its intricate three-dimensional shape; "understanding protein folding is the next step in deciphering the genetic code" ;

2. (

• fold ,
• folding ,

) a geological process that causes a bend in a stratum of rock ;

3. (

• fold ,
• folding

) the act of folding; "he gave the napkins a double fold" ;

1. (

• fold ,
• fold_up ,
• turn_up

) bend or lay so that one part covers the other; "fold up the newspaper"; "turn up your collar" ;

2. (

• fold

) incorporate a food ingredient into a mixture by repeatedly turning it over without stirring or beating; "Fold the egg whites into the batter" ;

3. (

• close_up ,
• close ,
• fold ,
• shut_down ,
• close_down

) cease to operate or cause to cease operating; "The owners decided to move and to close the factory"; "My business closes every night at 8 P.M."; "close up the shop" ;

4. (

• pen_up ,
• fold ,

) confine in a fold, like sheep ;

5. (

• fold ,
• fold_up ,

) become folded or folded up; "The bed folds in a jiffy" ;

1. (

• foldable ,
• foldaway ,
• folding

) capable of being folded up and stored; "a foldaway bed" ;