Definify.com

Webster 1913 Edition

Stalactite

Sta-lac′tite

(-tīt)
,
Noun.
;
pl.
Stalactites
(-tīts)
.
[Gr.
σταλακτόσ
oozing out in drops, dropping, fr.
σταλάζειν
to drop: cf. F.
stalactite
.]
(Geol.)
(a)
A pendent cone or cylinder of calcium carbonate resembling an icicle in form and mode of attachment. Stalactites are found depending from the roof or sides of caverns, and are produced by deposition from waters which have percolated through, and partially dissolved, the overlying limestone rocks.
(b)
In an extended sense, any mineral or rock of similar form and origin;
as, a
stalactite
of lava
.

Webster 1828 Edition

Stalactite

STALACTITE

,
Noun.
[Gr., to drop. L.] A subvariety of carbonate lime, usually in a conical or cylindrical form, pendent from the roofs and sides of caverns like an icicle; produced by the filtration of water containing calcarious particles, through fissures and pores of rocks.

Similar Results