Definition

Describing a type of rock or sediment that contains fossils or is formed from the remains of ancient organisms.

Example

The geologist studied the fossiliferous layers of rock to learn more about the Earth's history.

Conversation

I found this amazing rock in the park yesterday.

Really? What does it look like?

It's kind of fossiliferous, with some cool patterns on it.

That sounds interesting! I love rocks that tell a story.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Fossiliferous → It is formed from "fossilis" (from Latin, meaning dug up) and "-ferous" (from Latin "ferre", meaning to bear or carry). The word describes something that bears or contains fossils, indicating the presence of fossilized remains.

Memory Tip

Think of something that 'bears' ('-ferous') what has been 'dug up' ('fossilis') — that's why fossiliferous means containing fossils.

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