fossil

fos-sil · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    The preserved remains or impression of a prehistoric organism embedded in rock or other geological deposits.

  2. 2.

    (Informal) A person or thing that is outdated or resistant to change.

  3. 3.

    (Attributive) Derived from the remains of ancient organisms.

Forms

plural: fossils

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    fossil fuel — fuel formed from the remains of ancient organisms (coal, oil, gas)
  • •
    fossil record — the history of life documented by fossils
  • •
    living fossil — an organism that has remained unchanged for millions of years

Related words

See also: archaeology, fossils, paleontology, prehistoric
Synonyms: relic, remains, trace

Etymology

From Latin fossilis ("dug up"), from fodere ("to dig"). Originally referred to anything dug from the earth before becoming specific to preserved organic remains.