Mineralized: meaning, definitions and examples

This term is often used in geology and paleontology to describe organic matter that has accumulated minerals within its tissues, gradually replacing its original material. This process occurs over a long time. Mineralized is also used in biology and medicine for bones and tissues that have developed mineral deposits.

• The archaeologists found mineralized bones in the ancient burial site.
• The process of bone healing includes regions becoming mineralized over time.

Fossilized is used to describe organic remains that have turned into fossils, typically through the process of being buried and chemically altered over millions of years. It's mostly used when referring to ancient animal or plant remains.

• The fossilized dinosaur bone was displayed in the museum.
• Scientists discovered fossilized leaves from millions of years ago.

In geological terms, petrified refers to organic material that has been turned to stone through the process of permineralization. This word can also be used metaphorically to describe someone who is extremely scared or terrified, which carries a negative connotation.

• They found a petrified tree trunk that had turned to stone over millions of years.
• She was petrified with fear during the horror movie.

This word is used in geology to describe rocks that have undergone a transformation in their structure, composition, or both due to extreme heat and pressure. It can also refer to a profound transformation in other contexts.

• The sedimentary rock was metamorphosed into marble through heat and pressure.
• His views on life metamorphosed after his travels around the world.

Similar to 'mineralized', used when referring to an object or substance that has absorbed minerals, often found in geological discussions.

• The bones were mineralized over time, turning them into natural relics
• The mineralized water deposited layers of sediment in the cave

Used in medical and biological contexts to describe the process of calcium buildup in tissues.

• As people age, some of their tissues may calcify
• The injured area began to calcify, making movement difficult

A general term used to describe something becoming more solid, often used in everyday language.

• The mixture will harden after a few hours
• The cold weather caused the ground to harden

Used in a variety of contexts to describe making something stronger or more resilient.

• Exercise can help strengthen your muscles
• We need to strengthen our security measures