petrifaction

• Processus par lequel un matériau organique, généralement végétal, est transformé en pierre par imprégnation d'eau chargée de minéraux, en conservant la structure originale ; désigne aussi l'objet fossilisé qui en résulte.

A noun referring to the process by which organic material, typically plant matter, is turned into stone through the infiltration of mineral-laden water, preserving the original structure; also, the resulting fossilized object.

1. Process of turning to stoneC1formalscientific

   The process by which organic material, such as wood or bone, is turned into stone through the infiltration of water carrying dissolved minerals, which replace the original organic matter while preserving the original structure.

   pétrification

   • The petrifaction of the ancient forest created a stunning fossil landscape.
   • Scientists study the petrifaction process to understand how fossils are formed.
   • The petrifaction of the wood took millions of years.

   Synonymesfossilizationpetrification

2. Fossilized objectC1formalscientific

   A rock or fossil that was once an organic object, such as wood or bone, that has been infiltrated with mineral matter and preserved in its original form.

   Fossile (objet pétrifié)

   • The museum displayed a beautiful piece of petrifaction from the Jurassic period.
   • This petrifaction is a perfect example of a tree trunk turned to stone.
   • Collectors often seek rare petrifactions for their geological value.

   Synonymesfossilpetrification