Definition

A type of rock formed from minerals that remain after seawater evaporates, often found in dry areas.

Example

The geologist studied the evaporite layers to understand the ancient climate conditions.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of an evaporite?

Yeah, isn’t it something that forms from evaporating seawater?

Exactly! I read that they can turn into rocks like gypsum.

That’s so interesting! I never knew that about evaporites.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Evaporite is formed from "evaporare" (meaning to evaporate) and the suffix "-ite" (used to denote minerals or rocks). The word refers to a type of sedimentary rock that forms from the evaporation of water, leaving behind mineral deposits.

Memory Tip

Think of the process of 'evaporating' water, which leaves behind minerals — that's what an 'evaporite' is, a rock formed from evaporated water.

Visually Confused Words