As always, the OED is proving very useful. I'm listing the definitions that are applicable the Foldings series:
folding, vbl. n.1
b.1.b A clasping, an embrace. lit. and fig. Obs.
c.1.c Geol. The doubling up of strata; the result of this.
2.2
a.2.a The point or region of
folding; the bend or depression of a limb; a sinuous part or curve of a range
of hills, the winding of a valley. Cf. fold n.3 1 c.
b.2.b A fold of a garment, etc., of flesh, skin, etc.; †a
lock or plait of hair; †pl. the leaves of a folding-door; also, †a coil or
wreath of flame.
Draft partial entry June 2002
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Molecular Biol. The process whereby a polypeptide or polynucleotide chain
acquires a specific three-dimensional structure; the specific three-dimensional
(secondary or tertiary) structure of a protein or nucleic acid molecule.
I'm including this last definition for 'the process whereby ... chain acquires' ==> it is a self-generated/generating process.
