lithology

noun

li·​thol·​o·​gy li-ˈthä-lə-jē How to pronounce lithology (audio)
plural lithologies
1
: the study of rocks
2
: the character of a rock formation
also : a rock formation having a particular set of characteristics
lithologic adjective
or lithological
lithologically adverb

Examples of lithology 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.
Start at the visitor center, where experts share knowledge about the area’s geology and lithology. Josh Laskin, Travel + Leisure, 1 Sep. 2023

Word History

Etymology

litho- + -logy, probably after New Latin lithologia or French lithologie

First Known Use

1716, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of lithology was in 1716

Dictionary Entries Near lithology

Cite this Entry

“Lithology.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/lithology. Accessed 21 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

lithology

noun
li·​thol·​o·​gy lith-ˈäl-ə-jē How to pronounce lithology (audio)
: the study of rocks
Love words? Need even more definitions?

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