limestone

noun

lime·​stone ˈlīm-ˌstōn How to pronounce limestone (audio)
: a rock that is formed chiefly by accumulation of organic remains (such as shells or coral), consists mainly of calcium carbonate, is extensively used in building, and yields lime when burned

Examples of limestone in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
According to the Miami Herald, experts have said the sinking condos could be a sign that rising sea levels are accelerating the erosion of the limestone upon which South Florida is built. Raja Krishnamoorthi, Newsweek, 16 Dec. 2024 On Escobedo’s new façade, a vertically striated shell of rough limestone wraps four levels of galleries, and the ribs and channels recall the elaborate reliefs carved in those Mayan blocks of rock. Justin Davidson, Curbed, 10 Dec. 2024 Inside, the restoration reveals a cathedral transformed with now-gleaming limestone walls cleaned of centuries of grime. Thomas Adamson and Sylvie Corbet The Associated Press, arkansasonline.com, 9 Dec. 2024 Sinkholes usually form due to groundwater slowly eroding the underground rock that holds soil together, and Pennsylvania is particularly prone to sinkhole damage because of its limestone bedrock, according to the US Geological Survey. Chelsea Bailey, CNN, 6 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for limestone 

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of limestone was in the 14th century

Dictionary Entries Near limestone

Cite this Entry

“Limestone.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/limestone. Accessed 30 Dec. 2024.

Kids Definition

limestone

noun
lime·​stone ˈlīm-ˌstōn How to pronounce limestone (audio)
: a rock that is formed chiefly from animal remains (as shells or coral), consists mainly of calcium carbonate, is used in building, and gives lime when burned

More from Merriam-Webster on limestone

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

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