Definition

Relating to or containing a type of coarse-grained igneous rock that is composed mainly of plagioclase feldspar and hornblende.

Example

The geologist described the mountain's composition as dioritic due to the presence of diorite.

Conversation

Have you seen that new rock display at the museum?

Yeah, I went last weekend! The dioritic samples were fascinating.

I loved how they explained the formation process.

Me too! It really made me appreciate the different types of rocks.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Dioritic → The word 'dioritic' is derived from 'diorite' (from the Greek 'diorizein', meaning to distinguish or separate) and the suffix '-ic' (meaning pertaining to). Thus, 'dioritic' refers to something that pertains to or is characteristic of diorite, a type of coarse-grained igneous rock.

Memory Tip

Think of 'diorite' as a rock that is 'distinguished' or 'separated' in its composition, and remember that 'dioritic' describes something related to that specific type of rock.

Visually Confused Words