lac·co·lith (l k  -l th )n. A mass of igneous rock intruded between layers of sedimentary rock, resulting in uplift. [Greek lakkos, pond, cistern + -lith.] |
laccolith [ˈlækəlɪθ], laccolite [ˈlækəˌlaɪt]
n
(Earth Sciences / Geological Science) a dome-shaped body of igneous rock between two layers of older sedimentary rock: formed by the intrusion of magma, forcing the overlying strata into the shape of a dome
[from Greek lakkos cistern + -lith]
laccolithic , laccolitic [ˌlækəˈlɪtɪk] adj
| laccolith (lk-lth) 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. See illustration at batholith. |
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