metamorphism

[met-uh-mawr-fiz-uh m] /ˌmɛt əˈmɔr fɪz əm/
noun
1.
Geology. a change in the structure or constitution of a rock due to natural agencies, as pressure and heat, especially when the rock becomes harder and more completely crystalline.
2.
Archaic. metamorphosis.
Origin
1835-45; meta- + -morphism
Examples from the web for metamorphism
  • metamorphism is a complex process with a number of simultaneously interacting and related components.
  • Another type of metamorphism, contact metamorphism, occurs when hot igneous rock intrudes into some pre-existing rock.
  • Two of the common types are: regional metamorphism and contact metamorphism.
  • Low-temperature scanning electron microscopy of snow crystal metamorphism in winter snow covers.
  • metamorphism generally demolishes fossils beyond recognition.
  • metamorphism will change the rock's mineralogic or textural features.
  • The process of metamorphism does not melt the rocks, but instead transforms them into denser, more compact rocks.
  • Volcanic eruptions and metamorphism release gases into the atmosphere.
British Dictionary definitions for metamorphism

metamorphism

/ˌmɛtəˈmɔːfɪzəm/
noun
1.
the process by which metamorphic rocks are formed
2.
a variant of metamorphosis
Word Origin and History for metamorphism
n.

1837, from metamorphic + -ism.

metamorphism in Science
metamorphism
(mět'ə-môr'fĭz'əm)
The process by which rocks are changed in composition, texture, or structure by extreme heat and pressure. ◇ In prograde metamorphism metamorphic rocks that were formed under low pressure and temperature conditions undergo a second metamorphic event in which they are exposed to higher pressures and temperatures. ◇ In retrograde metamorphism metamorphic rocks that were formed under high pressure and temperature conditions undergo a second metamorphic event in which they are exposed to lower pressures and temperatures. See more at contact metamorphism, regional metamorphism.