mineralized
Upper-Intermediate (B2)
IPA: /ˈmɪn.ə.rə.laɪzd/
KK: /ˈmɪnərəlaɪzd/
adjective
Definition
Changed or filled with minerals, often referring to the process of becoming hard or stone-like.
Example
The fossil was mineralized over millions of years, turning it into a rock-like structure.
Conversation
Did you know that some fossils are actually mineralized?
Really? I had no idea it could happen that way.
Yeah, it’s fascinating how they turn into stone over time.
That makes me want to learn more about geology!
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
fossilized
petrified
enriched
Antonyms
depleted
unmineralized
barren
verb
Definition
To change something into a mineral or to become mineral-like in composition.
Example
The ancient bones were mineralized over thousands of years, turning them into stone-like fossils.
Tense Forms
Past: mineralized
Past Participle: mineralized
Conversation
Did you know that some rocks can be mineralized over time?
Really? I had no idea rocks could change like that.
Yeah, it’s fascinating how nature works to mineralized them.
Root Explanation
Mineralized → It is formed from "mineral" (from Latin *mineralis*, meaning pertaining to minerals) and "-ized" (a suffix meaning to make or to become). The word "mineralized" means to make or become mineral-like or to convert into a mineral form.
Memory Tip
Think of something being 'made into' ('-ized') a 'mineral' — that's why mineralized means to become mineral-like.
Visually Confused Words
unmineralized
remineralize
demineralize
semimineralized
internalize
interallied
integralize
infernalize