limestone

noun

lime·​stone ˈlīm-ˌstōn 

: 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

Gower’s geology is equally striking, ranging from carboniferous limestone cliffs in the south to expansive salt marshes and dunes in the north. —Valerie Stimac, Forbes, 17 Jan. 2025

Then, the limestone piece surfaces, cracked and missing a few inches off the top. —Elizabeth Wolfe, CNN, 17 Jan. 2025

The dining space can be found beneath it, opposite the living room with one of three French limestone fireplaces in the residence. —Demetrius Simms, Robb Report, 15 Jan. 2025

For decades, the community has gone back and forth with the city and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers on whether to preserve and rehabilitate the historic limestone steps which protect the point from the battering waves of Lake Michigan or replace them with concrete. —Chicago Tribune, 15 Jan. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing limestone

• nummulitic limestone

Kids Definition

limestone

noun

lime·​stone ˈlīm-ˌstōn 

: 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