stalactite

noun

sta·​lac·​tite stə-ˈlak-ˌtīt 

 also  ˈsta-lək-

: a deposit of calcium carbonate (such as calcite) resembling an icicle hanging from the roof or sides of a cave

stalactitic

ˌsta-(ˌ)lak-ˈti-tik 

stə-ˌlak-

adjective

Illustration of stalactite

• stalactite and stalagmite

Examples of stalactite in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Honeycombs of metal, or stalactites, Divide the distance into sheer domains. —Czeslaw Milosz, The New Yorker, 6 Jan. 2025

Visitors can explore its winding pathways and dramatic stalactites. —Laura Begley Bloom, Forbes, 31 Dec. 2024

The constantly evolving and changing cave system also includes various mineral formations, including stalactites, stalagmites, flowstones, and helictites. —Evie Carrick, Travel + Leisure, 6 Dec. 2024

Arching over the emerald basin are walls of stalactites dripping down the cavern ceiling, which opens to a dense jungle. —San Diego Union-Tribune, 30 May 2024

Word History

Etymology

New Latin stalactites, from Greek stalaktos dripping, from stalassein to let drip

First Known Use

1677, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

stalactite

noun

sta·​lac·​tite stə-ˈlak-ˌtīt 

: a deposit of calcium carbonate resembling an icicle hanging from the roof or sides of a cavern

Etymology

from scientific Latin stalactites "stalactite," from Greek stalaktos (adjective) "dripping"