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metamorphism

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noun meta·mor·phism \ -ˈmȯr-ˌfi-zəm \

Definition of metamorphism

:a change in the constitution of rock; specifically :a pronounced change effected by pressure, heat, and water that results in a more compact and more highly crystalline condition

Recent Examples of metamorphism from the Web

Like many processes that occur at the Earth’s surface, the liberation of sediment from weathering rock is an intuitive process to visualize (compared to something like metamorphism).

— brian romans, WIRED, "Witnessing the Birth of Sediment," 2 Jan. 2012

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'metamorphism.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

First Known Use of metamorphism

1845

Learn More about metamorphism

See words that rhyme with metamorphism Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about metamorphism

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