limestone

noun

lime·​stone ˈlīm-ˌstōn 

: a rock that is formed chiefly by accumulation of organic remains (such as shells or coral), consists mainly of calcium carbonate, is extensively used in building, and yields lime when burned

Examples of limestone in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Its limestone entrance rises above a grand 1820s mansion, its newer additions all hard modern lines and confidence. —Alexander Smith, NBC news, 11 Apr. 2026

The limestone-and-marble residence sits just off Park Avenue on a prime Upper East Side block, spanning roughly 12,000 square feet with seven bedrooms, 11 bathrooms, and even a private basketball court. —Abby Montanez, Robb Report, 10 Apr. 2026

Geology lovers will discover 425-million-year-old shale and limestone rocks filled with a plethora of marine fossils from when Indiana was covered by a shallow sea. —Joie Probst, Midwest Living, 10 Apr. 2026

Sunlight bounced off the snow and the building’s monumental limestone facade, and the friezes almost disappeared in the glare. —Judith Shulevitz, The Atlantic, 9 Apr. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing limestone

• nummulitic limestone

Rhymes for limestone

• acetone
• anglophone
• baritone
• bourguignon
• buspirone
• chaperon
• chaperone
• cobblestone
• collarbone
• cornerstone
• cortisone
• dictaphone

Kids Definition

limestone

noun

lime·​stone ˈlīm-ˌstōn 

: a rock that is formed chiefly from animal remains (as shells or coral), consists mainly of calcium carbonate, is used in building, and gives lime when burned