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Translate files Shale
/ʃeɪl/
Meaning & Definition
noun
A fine-grained sedimentary rock that is formed by the compaction of silt and clay-sized particles, often containing organic material.
The geological survey revealed the presence of shale deposits rich in fossil fuels.
A type of rock that can be split into thin layers along its bedding planes.
The builders preferred using shale for its ability to be easily shaped into tiles.
A sedimentary rock that can be rich in kerogen, which can be processed to extract oil and gas.
The extraction of oil from shale has become a significant part of the energy economy.
A rock that can sometimes serve as a source of groundwater.
In certain areas, shale formations are known to be important aquifers.
A type of clay-rich rock that weathers to form fertile soil.
The agricultural fields thrived on the nutrient-rich soil derived from weathered shale.
Etymology
Middle English, from Old English 'scealu', meaning 'to split'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
shale gas
Natural gas that is found trapped within shale formations.
oil shale
Shale that contains significant amounts of kerogen, from which liquid hydrocarbons can be produced.
shale formation
A geological formation primarily composed of shale.
Related Words
mudstone
A sedimentary rock that is composed of mud and is similar to shale but lacks the fissility.
slate
A fine-grained, foliated metamorphic rock that can easily be split into thin sheets, which forms from shale.
kerogen
A solid organic material derived from the degradation of organic matter in sedimentary rocks, including shale.
Slang Meanings
To break or split easily.
That material is so soft it just shales apart.