Definition

A large body of igneous rock that forms when magma cools and solidifies deep underground, often pushing up surrounding rock layers.

Example

The geologists studied the batholith to understand the region's volcanic history.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of a batholith?

Yeah, I think it's a huge mass of igneous rock, right?

Exactly! It forms when magma intrudes into the earth's crust.

That's fascinating! I love learning about geology.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Batholith → It is formed from "batho-" (from Greek "bathos", meaning depth) and "lithos" (meaning stone). The word describes a large mass of igneous rock that has solidified at great depths within the Earth's crust.

Memory Tip

Think of 'depth' ('batho-') and 'stone' ('lithos') to remember that a batholith is a large stone formation found deep within the Earth.

Visually Confused Words