limestone

noun

lime·​stone ˈlīm-ˌstōn How to pronounce limestone (audio)
: 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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The Cotter Building, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, is rendered in Indiana limestone and Wisconsin black granite infusing the Art Deco-style into Neo-Classical Revival. Kenneth R. Gosselin, Hartford Courant, 5 Mar. 2025 For over 5 million years, this subterranean time capsule remained completely cut off from the rest of the world, hidden beneath a thick slab of limestone and clay. Scott Travers, Forbes, 2 Mar. 2025 Fast forward to today, the U.K., with its iconic limestone cliffs, is considered one of the most exciting places to hunt for prehistoric fossils in Europe. Stacey Leasca, Travel + Leisure, 24 Feb. 2025 Higher elevation vineyards are noted for calcium-rich limestone or shale on the surface, while lower altitude areas and rolling hills will have this buried further down. Mike Desimone and Jeff Jenssen, Robb Report, 24 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for limestone

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of limestone was in the 14th century

Cite this Entry

“Limestone.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/limestone. Accessed 9 Mar. 2025.

Kids Definition

limestone

noun
lime·​stone ˈlīm-ˌstōn How to pronounce limestone (audio)
: 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

More from Merriam-Webster on limestone

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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