petrifaction

[ pe-truh-fak-shuhn ]

noun

1. the act or process of petrifying; the state of being petrified.
2. something petrified.

petrifaction

/ ˌpɛtrɪfɪˈkeɪʃən; ˌpɛtrɪˈfækʃən /

noun

1. the act or process of forming petrified organic material
2. the state of being petrified

petrifaction

/ pĕt′rə-făk′shən /

1. The process by which organic materials are turned into rock. Petrifaction occurs when water that is rich with inorganic minerals, such as calcium carbonate or silica, passes slowly through organic matter, such as wood or bone, replacing its cellular structure with minerals.

Other Words From

• petri·factive adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of petrifaction¹

1640–50; petri- + -faction < Latin factiōn- (stem of factiō ) a making. See petrify, faction ¹

Example Sentences

The sand-rock containing this petrifaction is found in a horizontal position, differing only with respect to hardness and color.

From Project Gutenberg

The subjoined petrifaction of a leaf, apparently a species of betula, was obtained on this river.

From Project Gutenberg

According to the Brooklyn Calvinist, God visits such supplicants with paralysis and petrifaction.

From Project Gutenberg

I am ungenerous, unloving,—a very petrifaction of anger and dissatisfaction.

From Project Gutenberg

Many perfect specimens of petrifaction are to be seen on the island and along the river-banks.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• coma
• rapture
• reverie
• stupor
• unconsciousness