Definition

Describing something that has been preserved in a solid form, often in rock, usually referring to remains of plants or animals from a long time ago.

Example

The fossilized remains of the dinosaur were discovered in the desert.

Conversation

Did you see the fossilized dinosaur bones at the museum?

Yeah, they were amazing! It’s incredible how they preserved them.

I know, right? I can’t believe those bones are so old and still fossilized.

It really makes you think about how life used to be on Earth.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Fossilized → It is formed from "fossilis" (from Latin, meaning dug up) and the suffix "-ized" (meaning to make or become). The word "fossilized" refers to something that has been made into a fossil, or preserved in a form that has been dug up from the earth.

Memory Tip

Think of something that has been 'dug up' ('fossilis') and 'made' ('-ized') into a fossil — that's why fossilized means preserved in that ancient form.

Visually Confused Words