"fossil" Definition

Definitions for the word "fossil" from multiple English dictionaries.

1. a.
Dug out of the earth; as, fossil coal; fossil salt.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
2. a.
Like or pertaining to fossils; contained in rocks, whether petrified or not; as, fossil plants, shells.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
3. n.
A substance dug from the earth.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
4. n.
The remains of an animal or plant found in stratified rocks. Most fossils belong to extinct species, but many of the later ones belong to species still living.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
5. n.
A person whose views and opinions are extremely antiquated; one whose sympathies are with a former time rather than with the present.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
6. n.
1 remains or impression of a (usu. Prehistoric) plant or animal hardened in rock. 2 colloq. Antiquated or unchanging person or thing. attrib. Adj. Of or like a fossil; antiquated. fossilize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing). Fossilization n. [latin fodio foss- dig]
Source: Oxford English Dictionary, 1884

Dictionary entries nearby:

Additional Info
This page provides a list of definitions and meanings for "fossil" from various historical English dictionaries. By displaying multiple definitions, you can compare and contrast different meanings and nuances of a word, phrase, or slang. You can also see the changes in meaning of "fossil" over time by viewing the definitions from different dictionaries published at different times in history. The page also includes other information to help users expand their vocabulary and understand the context of the word.

Important Notes
The definitions for words, phrases and slang (such as "fossil") in this dictionary are sourced from multiple sources - including sources historical in nature. The sources may contain outdated, inaccurate or even offensive information when viewed from a modern context. It is important to consider the date the dictionary was published and view such content from a historical perspective and consider that the meanings, interpretations and usage of words may have evolved over time. Users should cross-reference this information with contemporary sources for a more complete understanding.

This website is not affiliated with or endorsed by any brands mentioned on the page. Trademarks and logos are the property of their respective owners and are used for identification purposes only.