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Calcareous: meaning, definitions and examples

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calcareous

 

[ kælˈkɛr.i.əs ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

geological context

Calcareous refers to materials that are rich in calcium carbonate, which is primarily found in limestone and other sedimentary rocks. These materials often play a significant role in marine environments and ecosystems, as they can contribute to the formation of coral reefs and other aquatic structures.

Synonyms

calcium-rich, lime-based

Examples of usage

  • The calcareous deposits were evident along the coastal cliffs.
  • Scientists studied the calcareous algae to understand their role in marine habitats.
  • Calcareous rocks are commonly found in this region.
  • The aquarium featured a display of calcareous coral formations.

Translations

Translations of the word "calcareous" in other languages:

🇵🇹 calcário

🇮🇳 चूना पत्थर

🇩🇪 kalkhaltig

🇮🇩 kapur

🇺🇦 вапняковий

🇵🇱 węglanowy

🇯🇵 石灰岩の

🇫🇷 calcaire

🇪🇸 calcáreo

🇹🇷 kireçli

🇰🇷 석회암의

🇸🇦 كالس

🇨🇿 vápencový

🇸🇰 vápenatý

🇨🇳 石灰岩的

🇸🇮 apnenčev

🇮🇸 kalksteins

🇰🇿 әкелінген

🇬🇪 კალკარეული

🇦🇿 kalkerli

🇲🇽 calcáreo

Etymology

The word 'calcareous' originates from the Latin term 'calcareus', which means 'limestone'. The root 'calx' in Latin translates to 'lime' or 'calcium'. This linguistic history reflects the mineralogical composition of calcareous substances, primarily composed of calcium carbonate. The use of the term in scientific literature began around the 17th century, particularly in geology and biology, where it was employed to describe various formations and organisms in aquatic environments, such as coral reefs, which are predominantly made of calcareous materials. Over time, it has been established in botanical and zoological contexts to categorize organisms that secrete calcium carbonate shells or structures, emphasizing the widespread influence of calcium compounds in natural sciences.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #9,668 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.