Definition

To change loose material, like sediment, into solid rock through a natural process.

Example

Over millions of years, the sediment began to lithify into sandstone.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Have you ever wondered how fossils are formed?

Yeah, it's fascinating! I heard they can lithify over millions of years.

Exactly! It's amazing to think about how sediment turns into rock.

Right? Nature really has its own way of creating history.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Lithify → It is formed from "lithos" (meaning stone in Greek) and "-fy" (meaning to make or to cause to become). The word "lithify" means to make into stone or to turn into stone.

Memory Tip

Think of 'lithos' meaning stone, and remember that 'lithify' means to make something into stone.

Visually Confused Words