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Definition of fossilize

fossilize

/ˈfɑː.sə.laɪz/
(UK: fossilise)
fos · sil · ize
Adjective:fossilized
•
Past Simple:fossilized
•
Past Participle:fossilized
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Present Participle:fossilizing
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fossilize Lexical Profile

fossilize Game Scores & Validity

• verb

1

To preserve (an organism or its traces) in rock or sediment over geological time by replacing organic matter with minerals, or to become preserved in this manner.

Example

"Because soft tissues decay rapidly, only the hardest bones and shells typically fossilize in ancient riverbeds."

2

To make or become antiquated, inflexible, and incapable of further development or change (especially of ideas, institutions, or customs).

Example

"Without fresh perspectives and ongoing reform, the committee's policies began to fossilize into outdated dogma."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Nearby Words

fossa falls
fossil
fossilization
fossilize
foster
fothergilla
foul

Word Origin & Etymology

Coined in the late 18th century from 'fossil' (derived via French from Latin 'fossilis', meaning 'dug up', from the verb 'fodere', 'to dig') combined with the verbal suffix '-ize'.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Fossilize. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/fossilize
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