Definition

A type of furnace that is used to heat and convert limestone or shells into lime by burning them.

Example

The workers operated the limekiln to produce lime for construction.

Conversation

Have you ever seen a limekiln in action?

No, I haven't! What do they do?

They burn shells or limestone to create lime for construction.

That sounds interesting! I’d love to check one out someday.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Limekiln → The word is formed from "lime" (from Old English *lim*, meaning a type of calcium carbonate) and "kiln" (from Old English *cyln*, meaning a furnace or oven). A limekiln is a furnace used for burning limestone to produce lime.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'furnace' ('kiln') used to heat 'calcium carbonate' ('lime') — that's what a limekiln does.

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