Definition

A type of rock that is formed from the alteration of other rocks, mainly made up of amphibole minerals and some plagioclase and quartz.

Example

The geologist studied the amphibolite to understand its formation process.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of amphibolite?

Yeah, I think it's a type of rock, right?

Exactly! It's a metamorphic rock made mostly of amphibole.

That sounds interesting! I’d love to learn more about it.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Amphibolite → It is formed from "amphibios" (from Greek, meaning both kinds of life) and "-lite" (from Greek "lithos", meaning stone). The word refers to a type of metamorphic rock that is composed mainly of amphibole minerals, which can form in both igneous and sedimentary environments, hence the reference to 'both kinds of life'.

Memory Tip

Think of 'both kinds of life' ('amphibios') to remember that 'amphibolite' is a rock that can form in different environments.

Visually Confused Words