stalactite

noun

sta·​lac·​tite stə-ˈlak-ˌtīt 

also ˈsta-lək-

: a deposit of calcium carbonate (such as calcite) resembling an icicle hanging from the roof or sides of a cave

stalactitic

ˌsta-(ˌ)lak-ˈti-tik 

stə-ˌlak-

adjective

Illustration of stalactite

• stalactite and stalagmite

Examples of stalactite in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

In the province of Salerno in southern Italy, the Grotte dell’Angelo is a karst system featuring a unique network of caverns and impressive stalactites hanging from the vaults and stalagmites rising from the floor. —Maria Mocerino, Interesting Engineering, 2 Nov. 2025

Similarly, the custom light fixtures above the bar are designed to look like stalactites, and pebbly hiking pathways inspired the terrazzo mosaic flooring throughout. —AFAR Media, 29 Oct. 2025

It was built in 1954 by mathematician and organist Leland Sprinkle, who spent years identifying which stalactites would produce the right notes. —Alexandra Emanuelli, Southern Living, 16 Sep. 2025

Divers and snorkelers can explore the geological wonder’s caverns and stalactites that reach up to 40 feet. —Jennifer Kester, Forbes.com, 10 Sep. 2025

Word History

Etymology

New Latin stalactites, from Greek stalaktos dripping, from stalassein to let drip

First Known Use

1677, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for stalactite

• acolyte
• aconite
• allanite
• alunite
• amberlite
• ammonite
• amorite
• amphitrite
• analyte
• anchorite
• andesite
• anhydrite

Kids Definition

stalactite

noun

sta·​lac·​tite stə-ˈlak-ˌtīt 

: a deposit of calcium carbonate resembling an icicle hanging from the roof or sides of a cavern

Etymology

from scientific Latin stalactites "stalactite," from Greek stalaktos (adjective) "dripping"