brecciated
Upper-Intermediate (B2)
IPA: /ˈbrɛʧiˌeɪtɪd/
KK: /ˈbrɛʧiˌeɪtɪd/
adjective
Definition
Describing a type of rock that is made up of broken fragments that are cemented together.
Example
The geologist studied the brecciated rock to understand its formation.
Conversation
Did you see the new rock collection at the museum?
Yeah, I loved how they had that brecciated stone on display.
It was fascinating to see how those pieces fit together.
Absolutely! It really shows the beauty of nature's formations.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
fragmented
broken
shattered
Antonyms
whole
unbroken
intact
verb
Definition
To break or fragment into small pieces, often used in geology to describe rocks that have been shattered.
Example
The rock was brecciated during the earthquake, creating sharp fragments scattered across the ground.
Tense Forms
Past: brecciated
Past Participle: brecciated
Conversation
Did you see the rock formation at the park yesterday?
Yeah, it looked really interesting! Was it brecciated?
I think so! The different colors and textures were amazing.
Root Explanation
Brecciated is derived from the Italian word 'breccia', meaning broken or fragmented, which itself comes from the Latin 'brēccia', meaning rubble or broken stone. The suffix '-ated' indicates a state or condition. Thus, 'brecciated' refers to a rock or material that is in a broken or fragmented state.
Memory Tip
Imagine a rock that is 'broken' ('breccia') into pieces, and the '-ated' shows that it is in that state of being broken. This helps you remember that 'brecciated' means made up of broken fragments.
Visually Confused Words
reclinated