ECHINITE Meaning and
Definition
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Echinite is a noun that refers to a fossilized sea urchin or its distinctive shell. The term is derived from the Greek word “echinos,” meaning hedgehog or sea urchin.
In its broadest sense, echinite encompasses various species of ancient sea urchins, which were marine animals belonging to the echinoderm phylum that existed millions of years ago. These spherical, spiny creatures possessed an internal skeleton known as a test, which was made up of tightly interlocking plates. Echinoids, including echinites, played a significant role in the ecology of ancient oceans, participating in nutrient cycling and as a vital part of the food chain.
The term echinite specifically denotes a fossilized remnant of a sea urchin or its shell. These fossils have fascinated paleontologists and geologists as they provide valuable insights into the ancient marine ecosystems and the evolution of echinoids. Echinites are typically found in sedimentary rocks, often preserved through the process of petrifaction, in which organic matter is replaced by minerals over time.
Echinites come in diverse shapes and sizes, depending on the species and geological period to which they belonged. Some have smooth surfaces, while others are densely covered in spines. The fossilized shells of echinites display intricate patterns, revealing the structure of the urchin's skeletal system. These fossils are sought after by collectors and researchers alike, offering a glimpse into the ancient past and the incredible diversity of life that once inhabited the world's oceans.
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A general term for any fossil sea-urchin, or part of one.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for ECHINITE
- wchinite
- schinite
- dchinite
- rchinite
- 4chinite
- 3chinite
- exhinite
- evhinite
- efhinite
- edhinite
- ecginite
- ecbinite
- ecninite
- ecjinite
- ecuinite
- ecyinite
- echunite
- echjnite
- echknite
Etymology of ECHINITE
The word "echinite" has its roots in the Greek language. It is derived from the Greek word "ekhinos" (ἐχῖνος), meaning "hedgehog" or "sea urchin". Echinite is used to describe various fossilized sea urchin shells or spines. The term combines the Greek word "ekhinos" with the suffix "-ite", which is commonly used to denote a mineral or fossilized substance.
Similar spelling words for ECHINITE
- echinata,
- yshent,
- weishanite,
- aeshnoidea,
- Ashaunte,
- ushant,
- Echinate,
- Ashantae,
- Echinid,
- Ashantay,
- aeshnidae,
- yeshwant,
- Ashaunta,
- euechinoidea,
- echinoidea,
- Echinoid,
- ichneutae,
- Ashanti,
- anglo-ashanti,
- Ichnite,
- Ashaunti,
- Echinidae,
- watchnight,
- yshend,
- witchhunt,
- Ashuntae,
- etchant,
- Ashanta,
- yashwant,
- wushantou,
- Eschynite,
- Ashantee,
- achanta,
- Ashauntee,
- resist-etchant,
- echeneidae,
- Ashante,
- echinida.
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