Advertisement
Advertisement
petrifaction
[ pe-truh-fak-shuhn ]
petrifaction
/ ˌpɛtrɪˈfækʃən; ˌpɛtrɪfɪˈkeɪʃən /
noun
- the act or process of forming petrified organic material
- the state of being petrified
petrifaction
/ pĕt′rə-făk′shən /
- The process by which organic materials are turned into rock. Petrifaction occurs when water that is rich with inorganic minerals, such as calcium carbonate or silica, passes slowly through organic matter, such as wood or bone, replacing its cellular structure with minerals.
Discover More
Other Words From
- petri·factive adjective
Discover More
Word History and Origins
Origin of petrifaction1
Discover More
Example Sentences
The sand-rock containing this petrifaction is found in a horizontal position, differing only with respect to hardness and color.
The subjoined petrifaction of a leaf, apparently a species of betula, was obtained on this river.
According to the Brooklyn Calvinist, God visits such supplicants with paralysis and petrifaction.
I am ungenerous, unloving,—a very petrifaction of anger and dissatisfaction.
Many perfect specimens of petrifaction are to be seen on the island and along the river-banks.
Advertisement
Discover More
Related Words
Word of the Day
[fur-kin ]
Meaning and examplesStart each day with the Word of the Day in your inbox!
By clicking "Sign Up", you are accepting Dictionary.com Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policies.
Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement
Browse