authigenic

adjective

au·​thi·​gen·​ic

¦ȯthə¦jenik

variants or authigenous

(ˈ)ȯ¦thijənəs

: formed where found

—used of mineral particles of rocks formed by crystallization in the place they occupy

—opposed to allothogenic

Word History

Etymology

German authigen authigenic (from Greek authigenēs born in that place, native, from authi there + -genēs born) + English -ic or -ous; akin to Greek au again

First Known Use

circa 1888, in the meaning defined above

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now