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Sedimentary: meaning, definitions and examples

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sedimentary

 

[ ˌsɛdɪˈmɛntəri ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

rock formation

Sedimentary refers to rocks that are formed by the accumulation and compaction of mineral and organic particles, typically laid down in layers over time. These rocks often contain fossils and provide important information about the Earth's history.

Synonyms

layered, stratified

Examples of usage

  • The Grand Canyon showcases various layers of sedimentary rock.
  • Sedimentary rocks like limestone are commonly used in construction.
  • Fossils are often found in sedimentary formations.
  • The study of sedimentary rocks helps geologists understand past environments.

Translations

Translations of the word "sedimentary" in other languages:

🇵🇹 sedimentar

🇮🇳 अवशिष्ट संबंधी

🇩🇪 sedimentär

🇮🇩 sedimenter

🇺🇦 осадовий

🇵🇱 osadowy

🇯🇵 堆積性の

🇫🇷 sédimentaire

🇪🇸 sedimentario

🇹🇷 tortul

🇰🇷 퇴적의

🇸🇦 ترسيبي

🇨🇿 sedimentární

🇸🇰 sedimentárny

🇨🇳 沉积的

🇸🇮 sedimentarni

🇮🇸 settegja

🇰🇿 седименттік

🇬🇪 დაბინძურებული

🇦🇿 çökmə

🇲🇽 sedimentario

Word origin

The word 'sedimentary' originates from the Latin word 'sedimentum,' which means 'a settling or sinking down.' This term itself is derived from 'sedere,' meaning 'to sit.' The use of 'sedimentary' in geology traces back to the 18th century, when scientists began systematically categorizing rocks and their formations. The identification of sedimentary rocks as distinct entities helped to advance the study of geology, enabling a better understanding of Earth's processes, including erosion, sedimentation, and the history of life on Earth as encapsulated in fossils found within these rocks.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #9,172 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.