Definition

To turn into a fossil, which is the preserved remains or traces of ancient living things.

Example

The remains of the dinosaur were found in a rock layer where they had fossilised over millions of years.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Did you know that some plants can fossilise over millions of years?

Really? That's fascinating!

Yeah, it's amazing how nature preserves things like that.

I wonder what we'll find in the future if we keep digging.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Fossilise → It is formed from "fossilis" (from Latin, meaning dug up) and the suffix "-ise" (meaning to make or to become). The word "fossilise" means to make or become fossilized, or to turn into a fossil through the process of being dug up and preserved in sediment.

Memory Tip

Think of something being 'dug up' ('fossilis') and then 'made' into a fossil ('-ise'). This helps you remember that to fossilise means to turn something into a fossil.

Visually Confused Words