argillite

[ ahr-juh-lahyt ]

Phonetic (Standard)IPA

noun

argillite

/ ˌɑːdʒɪˈlɪtɪk; ˈɑːdʒɪˌlaɪt /

argillite

/ är′jə-līt′ /

A highly compacted sedimentary or slightly metamorphic rock consisting primarily of particles of clay or silt. Argillite differs from mudstone in that it does not have the same fine laminations, and from shale and slate in that it is not fissile.

1785–95; < Latin argill ( a ) argil + -ite ¹

C18: from Latin argilla clay (from Greek argillos ) + -ite ¹

The fact that argillite continued in use until the very last does not affect this conclusion.

On reaching the head of it, we found argillite in a vertical position.

Sandstone may be converted into quartzite, and shale into argillite, a compact, massive clay rock.

Near the upper end of the camp, Avalanche Creek has cut a deep, narrow gorge through brilliant red argillite.

Towering mountains close upon him upon both sides, that upon his right a celebrity in red argillite known as Rising Wolf.

April 18, 2024petrichor

[pet-ri-kawr]

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