metamorphic
/,metə'mɔ:fik/
Definition
- Adjective:
- Characterized by change in form or substance: Describes something that has undergone a significant transformation in its physical structure or nature.
- Relating to geological metamorphism: Specifically refers to rocks that have been transformed by heat, pressure, or chemical processes deep within the Earth's crust.
Usage
- The word metamorphic is primarily used in scientific contexts, especially geology and biology.
- It describes the result or the process of a profound, structural change.
- It is an attributive adjective, most commonly placed before a noun (e.g., ).
Examples
- General/Geological Context:
- Slate and gneiss are classic examples of metamorphic rocks.
- The intense heat and pressure created a metamorphic zone in the mountain core.
- Biological/Figurative Context:
- The caterpillar's metamorphic process into a butterfly is a marvel of nature.
- The artist's style underwent a metamorphic shift during her career.
Advanced Usage
- "Metamorphic facies": A set of metamorphic mineral assemblages that were formed under similar pressures and temperatures.
- The geologist identified the blueschist metamorphic facies in the sample.
- "Metamorphic grade": Refers to the intensity of metamorphism, often indicating the temperature and pressure conditions.
- The rock's high metamorphic grade suggests it was formed deep underground.
Variants and Related Words
- Metamorphism (n): The process by which rocks are altered in composition, texture, or internal structure by extreme heat, pressure, and the introduction of new chemical substances.
- Regional metamorphism affects large areas of the Earth's crust.
- Metamorphose (v): To change in form or nature; to undergo metamorphosis.
- The tadpole will eventually metamorphose into a frog.
Synonyms
- Transformational: Relating to a marked change in form or appearance.
- Transmuted: Changed in form, nature, or substance.
Antonyms
- Igneous: (In geology) Denoting rock formed by solidification from a molten state.
- Sedimentary: (In geology) Denoting rock formed by the accumulation and consolidation of sediment.
- Unchanging: Remaining the same; not changing.
Adjective
-
characterized by metamorphosis or change in physical form or substance
-
of or relating to metamorphosis (especially of rocks)
-
metamorphic stage
-
marble is a metamorphic rock that takes a high polish
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