Fossilized: meaning, definitions and examples

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fossilized

 

[ ˈfɑː.səl.aɪzd ]

Verb / Adjective
Context #1 | Verb

preserved remains

To become preserved in a fossil form, typically through the process of mineralization. This process involves the replacement of organic materials with minerals, resulting in a durable copy of the original organism. Fossilization can occur in various ways, such as in sedimentary rocks, ice, or amber.

Synonyms

mineralized, petrified, preserved

Examples of usage

  • The ancient tree was fossilized in volcanic ash, allowing scientists to study its structure.
  • The dinosaur bones were fossilized over millions of years, providing valuable insights into prehistoric life.
Context #2 | Adjective

rigid, unchanging

Having become rigid or unchanging, often in a negative sense. Fossilized can refer to ideas, beliefs, or practices that have remained unchanged for a long time, despite the need for adaptation or evolution. It can also describe a state of being stuck in the past, resistant to change or progress.

Synonyms

inflexible, rigid, unchanging

Examples of usage

  • The company's fossilized policies hindered innovation and growth.
  • His fossilized mindset prevented him from considering new possibilities.

Translations

Translations of the word "fossilized" in other languages:

🇵🇹 fossilizado

🇮🇳 जीवाश्मीकृत

🇩🇪 versteinert

🇮🇩 terfosil

🇺🇦 скам'янілий

🇵🇱 skamieniały

🇯🇵 化石化した

🇫🇷 fossilisé

🇪🇸 fosilizado

🇹🇷 fosilleşmiş

🇰🇷 화석화된

🇸🇦 متحجر

🇨🇿 zkamenělý

🇸🇰 skamenelý

🇨🇳 石化的

🇸🇮 fosiliziran

🇮🇸 steingervingur

🇰🇿 қазбаланған

🇬🇪 გაფოსილებული

🇦🇿 daşlaşmış

🇲🇽 fosilizado

Word origin

The word 'fossilized' stems from the noun 'fossil', which originated in the late 18th century from the Latin word 'fossilis', meaning 'dug up'. The concept of fossilization has been vital in understanding the history of life on Earth, providing evidence of past organisms and environments. The term has since evolved to also describe the preservation or stagnation of ideas and practices.

See also: fossilization, fossilize.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #27,600, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.