Meaning & Definition of word "Fossil"
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Fossil
/ˈfɒs.əl/
noun:
- 1. The remains or impression of a prehistoric organism preserved in petrified form or as a mold or cast in rock.
- Example: The paleontologist discovered a well-preserved fossil of a dinosaur leg in the excavation site.
- 2. A person or thing that has become outdated or obsolete because of a change in fashions or attitudes.
- Example: He’s such a fossil; he still thinks that traditional mail is better than email.
- 3. A plant or animal that has been preserved in sediment and is older than 10,000 years.
- Example: The fossil collection at the museum includes specimens that date back to the Jurassic period.
verb:
- 1. To turn into a fossil or to preserve in a fossilized state.
- Example: The conditions in the volcanic ash allowed the organism to fossil quickly.
Etymology
Derived from the Latin 'fossilis', meaning 'dug up'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
living fossil:
An organism that has remained unchanged over millions of years, resembling a species otherwise known only from the fossil record.
fossil fuel:
Natural fuels formed from the remains of ancient organisms, such as coal, oil, and natural gas.
Related Words
paleontology:
The scientific study of the history of life on Earth through the examination of plant and animal fossils.
archaeology:
The study of human history and prehistory through excavating sites and analyzing artifacts, including fossils.
Slang Meanings of fossil
Meaning: Someone who is very old or outdated in their views.
Example Sentence: Don't be such a fossil; you need to keep up with the times!
Meaning: A term for someone who is slow or not up to date with current trends.
Example Sentence: He's a total fossil when it comes to fashion; he still wears bell-bottoms.