silicify

Meanings

1. 1
   verb

   to convert material into silica or impregnate it with silica, especially during fossilization or rock alteration

   Mineral-rich water can silicify buried tree trunks over long periods.

2. 2
   verb

   to become converted into or impregnated with silica

   The wood can silicify while its microscopic cellular structure remains visible.

Formed from silica + -ify, literally 'make into or fill with silica.' Geologists use it for replacement or impregnation by silica, a process that can preserve the fine structure of wood and other buried material.

Topics