limestone

noun

lime·​stone ˈlīm-ˌstōn 

: 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

By analyzing microfossils — fossils about the size of a thumbnail — within the limestone, researchers found that the tiny ancient organisms preserved in the stone were from Europe, according to a study published September 4 in the International Journal of Historical Archaeology. —Taylor Nicioli, CNN, 31 Oct. 2024

It was thought to be the first plant west of the Mississippi River for portland, a type of cement that uses limestone. —Madalyn Mendoza, Axios, 31 Oct. 2024

This stunning 215-foot-tall limestone arch was carved over many years by babbling Cedar Creek. —Erin Gifford, Southern Living, 26 Oct. 2024

Benjamin Moore customized the paint color to match the limestone. —Andrew Sessa, Architectural Digest, 21 Oct. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing limestone

• nummulitic limestone

Kids Definition

limestone

noun

lime·​stone ˈlīm-ˌstōn 

: 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