How Do You Spell LITHOIDAL?

Pronunciation: [lˈɪθɔ͡ɪdə͡l] (IPA)

Lithoidal is a term used in geology to describe a rock that appears similar to a volcanic rock. The word is pronounced /lɪˈθɔɪdəl/, with the stress on the second syllable. The spelling of the word is derived from the Greek word 'lithos,' meaning stone and the suffix '-oid,' meaning resembling or having the appearance of. Used commonly to describe the appearance of extraterrestrial rocks, lithoidal can be spelled with either an 'e' or an 'a' in the suffix, but the former is more commonly used.

LITHOIDAL Meaning and Definition

1. Lithoidal is an adjective that describes something that resembles or has the qualities of stone or rock. Derived from the word "litho," which means stone, lithoidal is often used to describe geological formations, minerals, or other substances with a rock-like appearance or texture. It can also refer to the physical, chemical, or structural characteristics of materials that resemble or are similar to stone.

   In geology, lithoidal is commonly used to describe rock types that are composed of small, fine-grained particles, giving them a dense and compact appearance. These rocks may lack distinct grains, crystals, or layers, and can appear homogeneous or uniform. Examples of lithoidal rocks include basalt, obsidian, and some types of sedimentary rocks.

   Aside from rocks, lithoidal can also describe materials that resemble stone in terms of their hardness, durability, or texture. Objects or surfaces made of substances like concrete, ceramic, or certain types of glass may be referred to as lithoidal due to their stone-like qualities.

   In a broader sense, lithoidal can be used metaphorically to describe something that is firm, unyielding, or seemingly indestructible. It can be applied to abstract concepts or ideas that possess a similar quality to that of stone, such as unwavering resolve, resilience, or longevity.

2. Stony in appearance or structure.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for LITHOIDAL

• kithoidal
• pithoidal
• oithoidal
• luthoidal
• ljthoidal
• lkthoidal
• lothoidal
• l9thoidal
• l8thoidal
• lirhoidal
• lifhoidal
• lighoidal
• liyhoidal
• li6hoidal
• li5hoidal
• litgoidal
• litboidal
• litnoidal
• litjoidal

Etymology of LITHOIDAL

The word "lithoidal" is derived from the combination of two roots: "litho-" and "-idal".

1. "Litho-" is derived from the Greek word "lithos" which means "stone" or "rock". This root is commonly used in scientific and technical terms related to stones, rocks, or minerals. Examples of other words using this root include "lithography" (a printing process using stone or metal plates), "lithosphere" (the solid rock layer of the Earth's surface), and "neolithic" (referring to the New Stone Age).

2. "-idal" is a suffix that is used to form adjectives indicating a resemblance or quality. It is derived from the Latin suffix "-idus". This suffix has been adapted from Latin into English to describe certain characteristics or appearances.