metamorphism

American  

[met-uh-mawr-fiz-uhm] / ˌmɛt əˈmɔr fɪz əm /

noun

1. Geology. a change in the structure or constitution of a rock due to natural agencies, as pressure and heat, especially when the rock becomes harder and more completely crystalline.

2. Archaic. metamorphosis.

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metamorphism British  

/ ˌmɛtəˈmɔːfɪzəm /

noun

1. the process by which metamorphic rocks are formed

2. a variant of metamorphosis

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metamorphism Scientific  

/ mĕt′ə-môr′fĭz′əm /

1. The process by which rocks are changed in composition, texture, or structure by extreme heat and pressure.

2. ◆ In prograde metamorphism metamorphic rocks that were formed under low pressure and temperature conditions undergo a second metamorphic event in which they are exposed to higher pressures and temperatures.

3. ◆ In retrograde metamorphism metamorphic rocks that were formed under high pressure and temperature conditions undergo a second metamorphic event in which they are exposed to lower pressures and temperatures.

4. See more at contact metamorphism regional metamorphism

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Etymology

Origin of metamorphism

First recorded in 1835–45; meta- + -morphism

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Example Sentences

See Examples For:

metamorphism

This process can also transform the minerals and textures within the rock, a phenomenon known as metamorphism.

From Science Daily ● Oct. 11, 2026

On Earth, metamorphism usually happens slowly and deep underground.

From National Geographic ● Oct. 12, 2023

Shock metamorphism has happened often on Mars, but there’s also evidence for metamorphism that’s a bit like a cooler, gentler version of what can happen on Earth.

From National Geographic ● Oct. 12, 2023

"For the first time, we propose that shock metamorphism in quartz grains exposed to an atomic detonation is essentially the same as during a low-altitude, lower-pressure cosmic airburst," Kennett said.

From Science Daily ● Oct. 3, 2023

The igneous rocks of the Vosges, and those of the Alps, Corsica, &c., and the subject of metamorphism occupied his attention.

From Encyclopaedia Britannica, 11th Edition, Volume 7, Slice 10 "David, St" to "Demidov" by Various

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