What does sedimentary mean?
Sedimentary is chiefly a geological adjective describing material deposited as sediment and later compacted or cemented into rock. Sediment consists of particles such as sand, silt, clay, or organic debris that have settled from water, air, or biological activity. Over long periods, these deposits can form distinctive strata, and scientists study them for evidence about ancient environments, organisms, climates, and landscapes. The word is also used in specialized contexts such as sedimentary basins, deposits, and environments. More broadly, writers may apply it metaphorically to processes, styles, or political situations that develop through gradual accumulation. Sedimentary therefore carries both a literal scientific meaning and a figurative suggestion of gradual deposition. Its familiar geological sense is the dominant one, while related expressions such as sedimentary rock are standard in academic writing and general reference works.
adjectiveRelating to sediment or formed by the deposition and compaction of sediment. In geology, it describes rocks, deposits, and structures produced by the accumulation and lithification of sediment.
- Relating to or consisting of sediment.
- Formed by the deposition, accumulation, and compaction of sediment, especially as a rock or geological deposit.
"The river valley contains layers of sedimentary rock that record thousands of years of environmental change."
"Sedimentary layers beneath the desert preserve clues to its ancient climate."
"The architect used sedimentary textures and layered colors to give the building an imposing appearance."
Every sedimentary layer is a time capsule, preserving evidence of landscapes and climates that existed long before the rock was formed.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does sedimentary come from?
Sedimentary comes from Latin sedimentum, a word meaning settled matter or dregs and derived from sedere, “to sit.” The idea of material settling or being deposited was established in English scientific vocabulary during the early modern period, and the adjective later became especially prominent in the developing language of geology. Sediment, sedimentation, sedentary, and sessile reflect the same Latin family of ideas, although they developed different meanings and usage patterns.
Related word forms
How sedimentary is actually used
Chiefly a formal or technical term, especially common in geology and earth science. It can also be used metaphorically for ideas, changes, or styles that develop gradually through successive layers or accumulations.
Easily confused with sedimentary
Sedimentary describes the geological formation or accumulation of sediment, whereas sedentary describes habits or conditions involving prolonged sitting or physical inactivity.