amphibolite: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
Very LowTechnical / Scientific
Quick answer
What does “amphibolite” mean?
A type of metamorphic rock composed mainly of amphibole minerals.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A type of metamorphic rock composed mainly of amphibole minerals.
Any rock of metamorphic origin where the amphibole group of minerals is dominant, typically forming under medium to high-grade metamorphic conditions.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in meaning or usage between British and American English, as it is a precise scientific term.
Connotations
None beyond its technical definition.
Frequency
Used almost exclusively in geological and earth science contexts in both varieties.
Grammar
How to Use “amphibolite” in a Sentence
The [adjective] amphibolite contains [mineral][Geological feature] is composed of amphiboliteVocabulary
Collocations
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Not used.
Academic
Extensively used in geology, petrology, and earth science papers and textbooks.
Everyday
Virtually never used.
Technical
Core term in geological mapping, mineralogy, and metamorphic petrology.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “amphibolite”
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “amphibolite”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “amphibolite”
- Misspelling as 'amphibiolite' (adding an extra 'i')
- Confusing it with the adjective 'amphibolous' (ambiguous).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
The main minerals are amphiboles, such as hornblende, often accompanied by plagioclase feldspar.
Yes, due to its toughness and attractive appearance when polished, it is sometimes used as a dimension stone.
It forms through the metamorphism of mafic igneous rocks (like basalt or gabbro) under medium to high temperatures and pressures.
No, they share the Greek root 'amphi-' (meaning 'both' or 'double'), but 'amphibolite' refers to rock, while 'amphibian' refers to animals living both in water and on land.
A type of metamorphic rock composed mainly of amphibole minerals.
Amphibolite is usually technical / scientific in register.
Amphibolite: in British English it is pronounced /amˈfɪbəlaɪt/, and in American English it is pronounced /æmˈfɪbəˌlaɪt/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of AMPHIbole (a mineral group) + LITE (stone). It's the 'stone made of amphibole'.
Practice
Quiz
Amphibolite is primarily classified as what type of rock?