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.
The bottles will mature in limestone cellars beneath the House of Krug in Reims for six years. Mike Desimone and Jeff Jenssen, Robb Report, 22 Feb. 2025 At the end, beachgoers reach the pristine cove tucked into dramatic limestone cliffs with white sands and electric blue waters. Kathleen Wong, USA TODAY, 19 Feb. 2025 Spend time hiking atop the beautiful limestone cliffs of the village, and then head to Hat Wanakorn National Park, a marine park with white-sand beaches. Cat Sposato, AFAR Media, 18 Feb. 2025 The main feature of the necropolis is the presence of tall limestone pillars known as funerary steles up to 7.9 feet in height. Karen K. Ho, ARTnews.com, 18 Feb. 2025 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

Cite this Entry

“Limestone.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/limestone. Accessed 3 Mar. 2025.

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!