mafic

American  

[maf-ik] / ˈmæf ɪk /

adjective

Geology.

1. of or relating to rocks rich in dark, ferromagnesian minerals.

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mafic Scientific  

/ măf′ĭk /

1. Relating to an igneous rock that contains a group of dark-colored minerals, composed chiefly of magnesium and iron.

2. Compare felsic

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Etymology

Origin of mafic

1910–15; ma(gnesium) + Latin f ( errum ) iron + -ic

Compare meaning

How does mafic compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• mafic vs. felsic

Example Sentences

The mafic magma produced adjacent to the subduction zone rises to the base of the continental crust and leads to partial melting of the crustal rock.

From Textbooks • Jan. 1, 2015

Although mostly composed of felsic igneous rocks and gneisses, the Wopmay Orogen includes a body of mafic and ultramafic igneous rock called the Muskox Intrusion.

From Textbooks • Jan. 1, 2015

This area includes Canada’s most recent volcanic eruption, a cinder cone and mafic lava flow that formed around 250 years ago at the Tseax River Cone in the Nass River area north of Terrace.

From Textbooks • Jan. 1, 2015

About 10% of the mantle rock melts under these conditions, producing mafic magma.

From Textbooks • Jan. 1, 2015

The mafic magma produced rises through the mantle to the base of the crust.

From Textbooks • Jan. 1, 2015