Porphyry: meaning, definitions and examples
๐ชจ
porphyry
[ หpษหrfษri ]
geology
Porphyry is an igneous rock characterized by large crystals embedded in a fine-grained matrix. It forms when magma cools slowly below the Earth's surface, allowing large crystals to develop, and then erupts, cooling rapidly and forming the fine-grained portion. The term 'porphyry' also has historical significance in architecture and sculpture, as the stone was valued for its beauty and durability in ancient Rome. Porphyry can vary in color and composition, and is commonly used in decorative applications.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The ancient Romans favored porphyry for their sculptures.
- Geologists often study porphyry to understand volcanic activity.
- The porphyry deposits in this region are rich in copper.
- Architecture in the Renaissance often incorporated porphyry into its designs.
Translations
Translations of the word "porphyry" in other languages:
๐ต๐น pรณrfiro
๐ฎ๐ณ เคชเฅเคฐเคซเคฟเคฐเฅ
๐ฉ๐ช Porphyr
๐ฎ๐ฉ porfiri
๐บ๐ฆ ะฟะพัััั
๐ต๐ฑ porfir
๐ฏ๐ต ๆใ็ณ (ใฏใใใใใ)
๐ซ๐ท porphyre
๐ช๐ธ pรณrfido
๐น๐ท porfir
๐ฐ๐ท ํธ๋ง์ (pyeonmaam)
๐ธ๐ฆ ุจููุฑููุฑู (Burfฤซrฤซ)
๐จ๐ฟ porfyr
๐ธ๐ฐ porfyr
๐จ๐ณ ่พ้ฟๅฒฉ (huฤซ chรกng yรกn)
๐ธ๐ฎ porfir
๐ฎ๐ธ pรณrfyr
๐ฐ๐ฟ ะฟะพััะธั
๐ฌ๐ช แแแ แคแแ แ (porp'iri)
๐ฆ๐ฟ porfir
๐ฒ๐ฝ pรณrfido
Etymology
The word 'porphyry' originates from the Greek word 'porphyra', which means 'purple'. This is a reference to the rich purple color of some varieties of this rock, particularly the ones favored by Roman emperors. Porphyry was historically prized not only for its aesthetic qualities but also for its durability and resistance to degradation. Its use can be traced back to ancient civilizations where it was utilized in statues, columns, and building materials. The significance of porphyry in Roman architecture is particularly notable as it symbolized wealth and power. Over the centuries, the term has expanded to encompass a broader range of igneous rocks that share a similar texture, but the connection to its noble past remains a key element of its identity.