metamorphic

adjective

meta·​mor·​phic ˌme-tə-ˈmȯr-fik 

1

: of or relating to metamorphosis

2

of a rock : of, relating to, or produced by metamorphism

metamorphically

ˌme-tə-ˈmȯr-fi-k(ə-)lē 

adverb

Examples of metamorphic in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Calcite and dolomite in sedimentary rocks, like limestone and dolostone, and metamorphic rocks, like marble, are soluble in water and tend to erode quickly. —David Bressan, Forbes, 31 Oct. 2024

Igneous rocks are connected to volcanic processes while metamorphic rocks are formed through heat, pressure or fluids, or a combination of those forces. —Amanda Kooser, Forbes, 23 Sep. 2024

Unfortunately, most of these rocks are igneous, or in the case of the Acasta Gneiss, metamorphic, meaning that fossils are never or only very rarely preserved. —Big Think, 17 June 2024

One thing about the PVP that delights Coffey is that it is composed of all three kinds of rock — sedimentary, metamorphic and igneous. —Patt Morrison, Los Angeles Times, 3 May 2024

Word History

Etymology

meta- + -morphic, after metamorphosis

Note: The geological term was introduced by Charles lyell in Principles of Geology, vol. 3 (London, 1833), p. 375: "We divide the hypogene rocks, then, into the unstratified, or plutonic, and the altered stratified. For these last the term 'metamorphic' (from μετα, trans, and μορφη, form) may be used." See also note at metamorphism.

First Known Use

1816, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

metamorphic

adjective

meta·​mor·​phic ˌmet-ə-ˈmȯr-fik 

: changed into a more compact form by the action of pressure, heat, and water

a metamorphic rock

compare igneous, sedimentary sense 2

Medical Definition

metamorphic

adjective

meta·​mor·​phic ˌmet-ə-ˈmȯr-fik 

: of or relating to metamorphosis