stalactite etymology

Etymology:

The word "stalactite" comes from the Greek word "stalaktos," which means "dripping."

Meaning:

A stalactite is a type of speleothem (a mineral formation found in caves) that hangs from the ceiling or walls of a cave. It is formed by the accumulation of minerals dissolved in water that drips from the cave roof.

Origin:

Stalactites are formed when water seeps into a cave through cracks in the rock. As the water drips down, it dissolves minerals from the rock, such as calcium carbonate. The dissolved minerals are carried in the water until they reach a surface where they can be deposited. As the water evaporates, the minerals are left behind, forming a stalactite.

Over time, stalactites can grow to be very large. Some can reach lengths of several meters. Stalactites are a common feature of many caves around the world. They are often found in association with stalagmites, which are similar formations that grow up from the floor of a cave.

stalactite relate terms

• epistaxis

  Etymology Latin epistaxis from Greek epistaxis from epi upon stazein to dri

• stalactite

  Etymology The word stalactite comes from the Greek word stalaktos which means drip

• stagnate

  Etymology From Latin stagnāre to make or become stagnant from stagnum stagnant

• stalactite

  Etymology The word stalactite comes from the Greek word stalaktos which means drip

• cylinder

  Etymology The word cylinder is derived from the Greek word kylindros which itself co

• cave

  Etymology Cave originates from the Latin word cavea which means a hollowed out spac

• prompt

  Etymology From Middle English prompte from Old French proute alteration influenced by

• pound

  Etymology The word pound comes from the Old English pund or pundt which itself

• martyr

  Etymology The word martyr originates from the Greek word μάρτυς martys whic

• frustration

  Etymology The word frustration derives from Latin frustrare meaning to deceive

• dilemma

  Etymology From Latin dilemma from Greek dílēmma meaning double proposition or

• pretend

  Pretend Etymology From Middle English pretenden meaning to claim or profess to be

• smorgasbord

  Etymology The word smorgasbord comes from the Swedish words smör butter and gåsb

• heresy

  Etymology The word heresy is derived from the Old French hérésie which in turn co