Pronunciation: [pˌaɹəkˈɒnɪk] (IPA) 
The word "Paraconic" is spelled with the IPA transcription /pærəˈkɒnɪk/. This word is derived from "para-" meaning beside or similar and "conic" pertaining to or of the nature of a cone. It refers to a geometric shape that is similar to a conic shape. The spelling of the word includes the use of the letters "c" and "k" which together form the /k/ sound. The pronunciation of the word can be broken down as pa-ra-con-ic.
Paraconic is an adjective that refers to a specific geological term related to the formation of rocks and their subsequent metamorphism. It describes a mineral texture or fabric present in metamorphic rocks, particularly schists and gneisses.
The term "paraconic" derives from the combination of two words: "para," referring to a parallel or nearly parallel arrangement, and "conic," which relates to a conical shape or structure. When applied to rocks, paraconic describes a pervasive or dominant alignment of elongated minerals or mineral grains that is roughly parallel but slightly curved, resulting in a conical appearance.
Paraconic fabric indicates the alignment or arrangement of platy minerals, such as mica or chlorite, within a rock's matrix. These minerals typically exhibit a preferred orientation that is parallel to the rock's foliation or layering. The grains align themselves in elongated shapes, displaying a conical arrangement where they become concave or convex following the overall structure of the rock.
Paraconic fabrics can be observed and studied using microscopic techniques or through macroscopic field observations. Understanding the paraconic fabric of rocks is crucial in deciphering their geological history, as it provides valuable information about the intensity and direction of deformation experienced by the rock during its metamorphic evolution.
In summary, paraconic refers to the parallel arrangement of elongated minerals within a rock, visible through the conical alignment or curved shape exhibited by these minerals.
