fossilize
UK/'fɒsilaiz/US
TOEFLGREB2
Definitions
v.
To turn into a fossil; to be preserved in stone over time.
（使）变成化石；石化。
v.
To become rigid, outdated, or unable to change (figurative).
（比喻）变得僵化、陈腐、停滞不前。
Root Breakdown
Root-derivedfossil + -ize (to make/become) = 'to turn into a fossil.' Literally the slow process of becoming stone; figuratively, to harden and stop changing, like an idea that has fossilized.
Root fossil still carries 4 more wordsCommon Collocations
- 1.fossilize over time随时间石化
- 2.become fossilized变得僵化
- 3.fossilize into amber石化成琥珀
Example Sentences
- 1.
Under the right conditions, bones can fossilize over millions of years.
- 2.
The company's procedures had fossilized and badly needed reform.
- 3.
Tree resin can fossilize into amber, trapping insects inside.