Laccolith definition
A mass of igneous rock intruded between layers of sedimentary rock, resulting in uplift.
noun
A dome-shaped, irregular formation of intrusive igneous rock found between layers of sedimentary rock.
noun
A body of igneous rock intruded between layers of sedimentary rock, resulting in uplift. Laccoliths are usually plano-convex in cross-section, having a flat bottom and a convex top, and are roughly circular in plan. They are usually connected to a dike and are typically up to 8 km (5 mi) in diameter and tens to hundreds of meters thick.
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Alternative Forms
Alternative Form of laccolith -
laccolite
Other Word Forms
Noun
Singular:
laccolith
Plural:
laccolithsOrigin of laccolith
- Greek lakkos pond, cistern –lith
From American Heritage Dictionary of the English Language, 5th Edition
- Ancient Greek λάκκος (lakkos, “cistern”) + λίθος (lithos, “stone”)
From Wiktionary