AskDefine | Define metamorphic

Dictionary Definition

metamorphic adj
1 of or relating to metamorphosis (especially of rocks); "metamorphic stage"; "marble is a metamorphic rock that takes a high polish" [syn: metamorphous]
2 characterized by metamorphosis or change in physical form or substance [ant: nonmetamorphic]

User Contributed Dictionary

English

Etymology

From metamorphōsis, ultimately from meta-+ (morphos) 'form'.

Pronunciation

Adjective

metamorphic
  1. Having been structurally altered as a result of, or resulting from, exposure to intense heat &/or pressure (at the contact zone between colliding plates, for example).

Noun

metamorphic
  1. A rock that has been changed from its original form by subjection to heat and/or pressure.

Related terms

See rock, mineral

Extensive Definition

The term Metamorphic can be associated with a number of meanings:
metamorphic in Simple English: Metamorphic

Synonyms, Antonyms and Related Words

able to adapt, adaptable, adjustable, allotropic, alterable, alterative, anabolic, catabolic, catalytic, changeable, checkered, diversiform, ever-changing, flexible, fluid, heteromorphic, heteromorphous, impermanent, kaleidoscopic, malleable, manifold, many-sided, metabolic, metamorphotic, metastatic, mobile, modifiable, movable, multifarious, multifold, multiform, multiphase, multiple, multiplex, mutable, nonuniform, permutable, plastic, polymorphic, polymorphous, protean, proteiform, resilient, rubbery, supple, transient, transitory, variable
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