What does spherule mean?
A spherule is a small spherical object or particle, especially one found in geological, mineralogical, or planetary science. The word is useful when describing a body that has a distinctly rounded form but is smaller than a sphere in the ordinary sense. In sedimentology, spherules can be mineral grains, volcanic particles, or droplets formed by the melting and rapid cooling of rock during an impact or eruption. Their presence may provide evidence about the conditions in which they formed. Although “sphere” describes the general three-dimensional form, “spherule” gives the additional implication of small size and is often used in technical descriptions of microscopic particles.
nounA small sphere or spherical body. In geology and related sciences, the term may refer specifically to a small, rounded particle or microscopic body.
- A small sphere or spherical body.
- A small, usually microscopic, rounded particle, especially in geology, mineralogy, or planetary science.
"The sediment contained tiny mineral spherules that had been worn smooth over time."
"The scientist examined the rock thin section and found numerous rounded spherules."
"Impact spherules in the ancient sediment provide evidence that a meteorite struck the region."
The standard plural is “spherules.”
"The samples contained thousands of tiny spherules."
Some of the earliest spherules were formed when meteorite impacts melted rock into droplets that froze as they cooled.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does spherule come from?
The word is formed from “sphere” with the diminutive suffix “-ule,” indicating a small sphere or spherical body. “Sphere” ultimately comes through Latin from Greek sphaira, referring to a round object. The related English forms “spherical” and “spheroid” developed from the same Greek and Latin source.
How spherule is actually used
The general sense is relatively uncommon, while the specialized geological and mineralogical senses are established technical usages. In these fields, spherule usually implies a small, often microscopic, rounded particle rather than an object of substantial size.
Easily confused with spherule
A sphere is a complete three-dimensional round form, whereas a spherule is specifically a small spherical particle or body.
A globule is generally a small drop or rounded mass of liquid, while a spherule is more specifically a small solid or geological spherical body.