pseudomorph

noun

pseu·​do·​morph ˈsü-də-ˌmȯrf How to pronounce pseudomorph (audio)
1
: a mineral having the characteristic outward form of another species
2
: a deceptive or irregular form
pseudomorphic adjective
pseudomorphism noun
pseudomorphous adjective

Word History

Etymology

probably from French pseudomorphe, from pseud- + -morphe -morph

First Known Use

1839, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of pseudomorph was in 1839

Dictionary Entries Near pseudomorph

Cite this Entry

“Pseudomorph.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/pseudomorph. Accessed 3 Dec. 2024.

More from Merriam-Webster on pseudomorph

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!