argillite

[ ahr-juh-lahyt ]

noun

1. any compact sedimentary rock composed mainly of clay materials; clay stone.

argillite

/ ˈɑːdʒɪˌlaɪt; ˌɑːdʒɪˈlɪtɪk /

noun

1. any argillaceous rock, esp a hardened mudstone

argillite

/ är′jə-līt′ /

1. A highly compacted sedimentary or slightly metamorphic rock consisting primarily of particles of clay or silt. Argillite differs from mudstone in that it does not have the same fine laminations, and from shale and slate in that it is not fissile.

Derived Forms

• argillitic, adjective

Other Words From

• ar·gil·lit·ic [ahr-j, uh, -, lit, -ik], adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of argillite¹

1785–95; < Latin argill ( a ) argil + -ite ¹

Word History and Origins

Origin of argillite¹

C18: from Latin argilla clay (from Greek argillos ) + -ite ¹

Example Sentences

The fact that argillite continued in use until the very last does not affect this conclusion.

From Project Gutenberg

On reaching the head of it, we found argillite in a vertical position.

From Project Gutenberg

Sandstone may be converted into quartzite, and shale into argillite, a compact, massive clay rock.

From Project Gutenberg

Near the upper end of the camp, Avalanche Creek has cut a deep, narrow gorge through brilliant red argillite.

From Project Gutenberg

Towering mountains close upon him upon both sides, that upon his right a celebrity in red argillite known as Rising Wolf.

From Project Gutenberg