GNEISS Meaning and
Definition
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Gneiss is a type of metamorphic rock that is formed through the process of regional metamorphism, which involves intense pressure and heat acting on pre-existing rocks. Characterized by its banded or layered appearance, gneiss is made up of various minerals such as quartz, feldspar, mica, and amphibole. It typically exhibits a foliated texture, where the minerals have aligned to create distinct bands or layers of different compositions.
The color of gneiss can vary greatly depending on the minerals present, ranging from light gray or white to shades of pink, red, or black. Its texture can be coarse or fine-grained, and its hardness often allows it to be used as a durable construction material.
Gneiss forms deep within the Earth's crust under high pressure and temperature conditions. It is commonly found in areas with past tectonic activity, such as regions that have undergone mountain-building processes or where continents have collided. This rock type is often associated with the roots of ancient mountain ranges.
The word "gneiss" is believed to originate from the German term "gneis," which means "sparkling" or "shining." This name refers to the glittery appearance of many gneiss varieties due to the presence of minerals like quartz or mica. Gneiss is extensively used in architecture, as decorative stone, and in the production of countertops, flooring, and monuments due to its appealing appearance, durability, and resistance to weathering.
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A hard, tough, crystalline, and slaty rock, composed mostly of quartz, felspar, mica, and hornblende, differing from granite in having its crystals broken, indistinct, and confusedly aggregate.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for GNEISS
Etymology of GNEISS
The word "gneiss" has its origins in the German language. It comes from the Middle High German word "ganeist", which is derived from the Old High German word "ganeisto". This, in turn, is a variation of the Old High German word "ganeiz", meaning "sparkling stone" or "spark". The German word "gneis" was later anglicized to "gneiss" and adopted into the geological terminology.
Similar spelling words for GNEISS
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