lichenise

A scientist lichenises a rock sample in the laboratory.

Definition

Verb (transitive): To cover or encrust with lichen.

Usage Examples

Advanced Usage

• "to become lichenised": to be transformed into a lichen-covered state.
  • The abandoned statues slowly became lichenised as moss and lichen took hold.

Variants and Related Words

• Lichenisation (noun): the process or result of being covered with lichen.
  • The lichenisation of the gravestones was a sign of great age.
• Lichenised (adjective): covered or encrusted with lichen.
  • The lichenised bark of the ancient oak tree was home to many insects.

Synonyms

• Encrust: to cover with a hard outer layer.
• Overgrow: to grow over and cover a surface (used for plants or fungi).

Phrasal Verbs

• Lichenise over: to gradually become covered with lichen.
  • The old fence posts will lichenise over if left untouched.

Related Idioms

• (No common idioms are associated with this highly specialized term.)