fossilization
fossilization Lexical Profile
fossilization Game Scores & Validity
• noun
The natural geological process by which organic remains, impressions, or traces of organisms are preserved in rock or sediment over a long period of time.
"Rapid burial beneath fine sediment and a lack of oxygen are essential conditions for the fossilization of delicate plant tissues."
The state or process of becoming fixed, rigid, outdated, and incapable of further adaptation or development.
"Without regular reform and open debate, institutional rules risk falling into complete fossilization."
In second-language acquisition, the permanent retention of incorrect linguistic forms, grammar, or pronunciation in a learner's interlanguage despite continued exposure and instruction.
"Targeted corrective feedback can help prevent the fossilization of common grammatical errors among intermediate language learners."
• Rhymes for fossilization
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
Formed in the late 18th century from the verb 'fossilize', which traces back through French 'fossile' to the Latin 'fossilis' ('dug up'), from the verb 'fodere' ('to dig').