What does dolomitic mean?
Dolomitic is an adjective of geology and materials science meaning relating to, consisting of, or containing dolomite — a carbonate mineral made of calcium magnesium carbonate. It most often modifies rock types: dolomitic limestone, for instance, is limestone whose original calcium has been partially replaced by magnesium through the action of magnesium-rich waters, a process geologists call dolomitisation. The word appears mainly in technical contexts such as field reports on sedimentary basins, descriptions of quarry output, and specifications for construction aggregates, since dolomitic stone is valued for its strength and resistance to weathering. The term derives from dolomite, itself named after the eighteenth-century French mineralogist Déodat de Gratet de Dolomieu, whose studies of Alpine rocks led to the naming of the Dolomite Mountains. Though precise and useful within its domain, dolomitic is essentially a scientific descriptor rather than a word of everyday speech.
adjectiveRelating to, consisting of, or containing the mineral dolomite; also describes limestone that has been partly or wholly converted into dolomite by replacement of calcium with magnesium.
- Of, relating to, or composed of the mineral dolomite.
- (Geology) Describing limestone altered by magnesium-rich waters so that part of its calcium has been replaced by magnesium.
"The quarry extracts dolomitic marble prized for its durability and pale lustre."
"The aquifer flows through fractured dolomitic bedrock, giving the water its high mineral content."
"Builders in the region favoured dolomitic limestone because it weathers slowly and polishes well."
Named after a French geologist who fought in Napoleon's campaigns, dolomitic rock preserves mountains — literally: the Dolomites are named for him too.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of dolomitic
Dolomitic derives from dolomite plus the adjectival suffix -ic. Dolomite was named after Déodat de Gratet de Dolomieu (1750–1801), the French geologist who first described the mineral's distinctive chemistry in rocks of the southern Alps; the mountain range known as the Dolomites honours him likewise. English use of both terms dates from the early nineteenth century, following the spread of his work in European geological literature.
Related word forms
How dolomitic is actually used
A technical term used chiefly in geology, petrology, mining, and construction materials science; rare outside specialist writing. It carries no figurative or emotional connotation.
Easily confused with dolomitic
Dolomite is the mineral itself (a noun), while dolomitic is the adjective describing rocks or materials containing or derived from it.