View synonyms for plutonic

plutonic

[ ploo-ton-ik ]

Phonetic (Standard)IPA

adjective

, Geology.

noting or pertaining to a class of igneous rocks that have solidified far below the earth's surface.

plutonic

/ pluːˈtɒnɪk /

(of igneous rocks) derived from magma that has cooled and solidified below the surface of the earth Alsoabyssal

1790–1800; < Latin Plūtōn- (stem of Plūtō Pluto < Greek Ploútōn ) + -ic; originally referring to the Plutonic theory ( plutonism )

C20: named after Pluto ¹

The mountain itself bears the most indubitable marks of plutonic origin.

Down to a comparatively recent period, it would seem to have been the theatre of plutonic phenomena of an extraordinary character.

The name Plutonic or Massive rocks is, however, now almost universally substituted for that of Primary.

Igneous rocks in great variety and in all forms incident to an extruded or volcanic and intruded or plutonic origin are present.

The intrusion may be essentially laccolitic in character, or it may represent the plutonic basis of a volcano.

April 18, 2024petrichor

[pet-ri-kawr]

Start each day with the Word of the Day in your inbox!

By clicking "Sign Up", you are accepting Dictionary.com Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policies.

Browse