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Metamorphic: meaning, definitions and examples

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metamorphic

 

[ ˌmɛtəˈmɔrfɪk ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

geology, biology

Metamorphic refers to rocks that have undergone a transformation due to heat, pressure, and mineral exchange, resulting in a change in their physical and chemical properties. This process, known as metamorphism, can result in the formation of various rock types such as schist, gneiss, and marble. In biology, the term metamorphic is also used to describe organisms that undergo metamorphosis, which is a significant change in form during their life cycle, such as the transformation of a caterpillar into a butterfly.

Synonyms

altered, changed, transformed

Examples of usage

  • Metamorphic rocks are often found in mountain ranges.
  • The metamorphic process can involve both temperature and pressure changes.
  • Some amphibians exhibit metamorphic development, changing from larvae to adults.
  • Studying metamorphic rocks helps geologists understand Earth's history.

Translations

Translations of the word "metamorphic" in other languages:

🇵🇹 metamórfico

🇮🇳 रूपांतरकारी

🇩🇪 metamorph

🇮🇩 metamorf

🇺🇦 метаморфний

🇵🇱 metamorficzny

🇯🇵 変成の

🇫🇷 métamorphique

🇪🇸 metamórfico

🇹🇷 metamorfoz

🇰🇷 변성의

🇸🇦 متغير الشكل

🇨🇿 metamorfní

🇸🇰 metamorfický

🇨🇳 变质的

🇸🇮 metamorfičen

🇮🇸 mótun

🇰🇿 метаморфты

🇬🇪 მეტამორფული

🇦🇿 metamorfoz

🇲🇽 metamórfico

Etymology

The term 'metamorphic' comes from the Greek word 'metamorphoun,' which means 'to transform' or 'to change shape.' This root is derived from 'meta,' meaning 'beyond' or 'change,' and 'morphe,' meaning 'form' or 'shape.' The usage of the word in relation to geology dates back to the late 18th century when scientists began to classify and study different types of rocks based on their formation processes. The broader application of 'metamorphic' in biology to describe life cycle changes, especially in insects and amphibians, emerged in the mid-19th century as the study of natural history expanded.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #13,049, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.