WordGarden.iosedimentary
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /sˌɛdɪmˈɛntəri/
US
- /ˌsɛdəˈmɛntəri/
Meanings
Adjective
formed by the deposition and consolidation of sediment
Beyond the definition
Imagine building with LEGO bricks, one on top of another. That's essentially how sedimentary rock forms! "Sedimentary" describes things—especially rocks—that are created from bits and pieces of other materials (like sand, shells, or even organic debris) settling down in layers over a long time. Think about the Grand Canyon; those stunning striped cliffs are a world-famous example of sedimentary rock.
The word comes from the Latin sedere, meaning "to sit" or "settle." So, anything "sedimentary" has essentially sat and accumulated over time. While it's a geological term, you can use it figuratively to describe things that develop gradually, like "sedimentary layers of tradition" in a family, where each generation adds its own unique customs to the foundation.
"Sedimentary" most commonly describes rocks formed from the accumulation or deposition of mineral or organic particles at Earth's surface, followed by compaction and cementation. These layers, called sediments, are created when existing rock is broken down by weathering and erosion. Think of wind, water, or ice carrying tiny pieces away. Over millions of years, these sediments compress under their own weight and slowly harden into sedimentary rocks like sandstone, limestone, or shale.
But "sedimentary" isn't only about geology. It can also be used figuratively to describe something that develops gradually in layers. You might talk about the "sedimentary growth" of a city, where each generation leaves something behind for the next one to build on. In the same way, a culture, a family tradition, or even a person's habits can seem "sedimentary" when they have formed little by little over a long period of time.
Think of history itself as something layered: old events settle, new ones gather on top, and over time they create a larger story. Whether you're exploring the Earth's crust or talking about customs, habits, or social change, "sedimentary" points to something formed by gradual accumulation, layer upon layer, until many small parts become a larger whole.
Examples
- 1
Fossil sites
Much of the region is covered by sedimentary rock, so fossils are relatively common there.
- 2
Drill samples
The drill samples showed several sedimentary layers beneath the desert floor.
- 3
Oil and gas
Oil and gas often collect in sedimentary basins formed millions of years ago.
- Domainsedimentary basin
a large area where layers of material built up over time
See also
Similar
Shades of meaning
Contrast
Used with (collocations)
- sedimentary rock
- sedimentary layer
- sedimentary basin
- sedimentary deposit
Word family
Explore
- lithification
- erosion
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- sedimentaryadjective