travertine

noun

trav·​er·​tine ˈtra-vər-ˌtēn 

-tən

: a mineral consisting of a massive usually layered calcium carbonate (such as aragonite or calcite) formed by deposition from spring waters or especially from hot springs

Examples of travertine in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Natural Neutrals Look for limestone- and travertine-inspired tiles in soft beige and sand tones to usher in a return to classic materials with staying power, says Kelly. —Patricia Shannon, Better Homes & Gardens, 7 Feb. 2026

Common stone options for flooring include marble, which is usually the most expensive, slate, travertine and granite. —Dan Simms, USA Today, 29 Jan. 2026

While lamps with chrome or brass finishes serve as radiant and eye-catching accents, those made with marble, terra-cotta, or travertine can add texture to a sleek space. —Kate McGregor, Architectural Digest, 23 Jan. 2026

During summer, the nearly 500-foot gush of a monsoon waterfall off a travertine cliff is a showstopper. —Anna Zacharias, Condé Nast Traveler, 21 Jan. 2026

Word History

Etymology

French travertin, from Italian travertino, trevertino, from Latin tiburtinus, adjective, of travertine, literally, of Tibur (Tivoli)

First Known Use

1669, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for travertine

• acini
• aldine
• arsine
• carinii
• cosine
• delphine
• domine
• latine
• leucine
• ovine
• pennine
• porcine

Kids Definition

travertine

noun

trav·​er·​tine ˈtrav-ər-ˌtēn 

-tən

: a mineral consisting of a massive usually layered calcium carbonate formed as deposits from spring waters or especially from hot springs