Definition

Noun: A nummulite is a large, disc-shaped fossil of a single-celled organism (a foraminifer) that lived during the Tertiary period. Its name comes from its coin-like shape, resembling a small coin.

Usage

The word nummulite is used specifically in the fields of geology and paleontology to refer to these distinctive fossils. - The limestone cliffs were rich in nummulite fossils. - Under the microscope, the internal structure of the nummulite was clearly visible.

Advanced Usage

• Nummulitic limestone: A type of rock largely composed of nummulite fossils.
  • The pyramids of Egypt are partly constructed from nummulitic limestone.

Variants and Related Words

• Nummulitic (adjective): Pertaining to or composed of nummulites.
  • The nummulitic deposits indicate a shallow marine environment.

Synonyms

• Foraminiferan fossil (a more general term)
• Lenticulite (a less common synonym for similar disc-shaped fossils)

Different Meanings

The word nummulite has only one primary meaning related to paleontology. It does not have other common definitions or usages in modern English.

Noun

1. large fossil protozoan of the Tertiary period