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Ossified: meaning, definitions and examples

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ossified

 

[ ˈɒsɪˌfaɪd ]

Adjective / Verb
Context #1 | Adjective

biological process

Ossified refers to the process of bone formation where cartilage is gradually replaced by bone tissue. It can also refer to a rigid or unchanging state, especially regarding ideas or practices.

Synonyms

fixed, hardened, stiffened

Examples of usage

  • The ossified remains of ancient creatures were discovered in the excavation.
  • His ossified views on art made it difficult for him to appreciate modern works.
  • The ossified policy has been in place for decades without any adjustments.
Context #2 | Verb

transition to rigidity

Ossified, the past tense of 'ossify', means to turn into bone or to become rigid, often referring to ideas or systems that have become inflexible.

Synonyms

fossilized, hardened, solidified

Examples of usage

  • Once his beliefs ossified, he stopped considering alternative viewpoints.
  • The debate ossified into a stubborn standoff.
  • Her flexible thinking ossified after years in the industry.

Translations

Translations of the word "ossified" in other languages:

🇵🇹 ossificado

🇮🇳 हड्डी जैसा

🇩🇪 verknöchert

🇮🇩 mengokoh

🇺🇦 осифікований

🇵🇱 skostniały

🇯🇵 骨化した

🇫🇷 ossifié

🇪🇸 osificado

🇹🇷 kemikleşmiş

🇰🇷 골화된

🇸🇦 تكلس

🇨🇿 kostnatý

🇸🇰 kostnatý

🇨🇳 骨化的

🇸🇮 okostenel

🇮🇸 beinharður

🇰🇿 сүйектенген

🇬🇪 ოსიფიცირებული

🇦🇿 sümükleşmiş

🇲🇽 osificado

Word origin

The term 'ossified' is derived from the Latin word 'ossificare', which means 'to make bone'. This Latin term is made up of 'os', meaning 'bone', and 'facere', meaning 'to make'. The word has been used in English since the late 18th century, primarily in biological contexts to describe the process of bone formation. Over time, it has also taken on metaphorical meanings, referring to the hardening of beliefs or practices, reflecting a reluctance to change or adapt. This usage emerged in the 19th century as social and cultural critique became more common. The concept of ossification symbolizes stagnation or inflexibility, making the word relevant in various discussions beyond just biological processes.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #27,024, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.