Pronunciation: [kˈɪməɹˌɪd͡ʒ] (IPA) 
Kimmeridge is a small village located in Dorset, England. The spelling of this word follows the typical English spelling pattern: K-I-M-M-E-R-I-D-G-E. Using IPA phonetic transcription, it is pronounced /ˈkɪmərɪdʒ/. The "K" is pronounced as /k/, while the double "M" is represented as /m/ sound. The "E" in both syllables is pronounced as the schwa sound /ə/. The final syllable ends in a soft /dʒ/ sound represented by the letter "G."
Kimmeridge is a term that can be used to refer to several related concepts, all of which have natural or geological origins. The term is primarily associated with Kimmeridge Bay, a small bay located on the Dorset coast in the south of England. The bay became significant due to the presence of the Kimmeridge Clay, a specific type of clay that is widely known for its abundant fossil content. This clay is part of the Upper Jurassic series of sedimentary rock formations.
In a broader sense, "kimmeridge" can also refer to the Kimmeridgian stage, which is a subdivision of the Jurassic period. This stage takes its name from the aforementioned Kimmeridge Bay due to the extensive exposure of Kimmeridge Clay found in the area. The Kimmeridgian stage is characterized by the deposition of marine sediment rich in organic matter, leading to the formation of the Kimmeridge Clay.
Furthermore, "kimmeridge" may also be used as an adjective to describe anything related to the Kimmeridge Clay or the Kimmeridgian stage. For example, a geological formation that is composed of or resembles the Kimmeridge Clay could be referred to as a "kimmeridge formation." Similarly, fossil remains found within the Kimmeridge Clay may be described as "kimmeridge fossils."
The word "Kimmeridge" derives from the name of a small village located on the coast of Dorset in England. The name itself is believed to have Old English origins, coming from the combination of two elements: "cyn" or "cyne", meaning "royal", and "myrig", meaning "ridge" or "block of stone". Therefore, "Kimmeridge" is often interpreted as "royal ridge" or "ridge of stone", likely referencing the rocky coastal landscapes of the area.
