metamorphic

met·a·mor·phic  (mt-môrfk)

adj.

1. also met·a·mor·phous (-fs) Of, relating to, or characterized by metamorphosis.

2. Geology Changed in structure or composition as a result of metamorphism. Used of rock.

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[metamorph(osis) + -ic.]

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metamorphic

Adjective

1. (of rocks) altered considerably from the original structure and composition by pressure and heat

2. of metamorphosis or metamorphism

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metamorphic  (mt-môrfk)

1. Zoology Relating to metamorphosis.

2. Geology Relating to rocks that have undergone metamorphism. Metamorphic rocks are formed when igneous, sedimentary, or other metamorphic rocks undergo a physical change due to extreme heat and pressure. These changes often produce folded layers or banding in the rocks, and they can also cause pockets of precious minerals to form. The folds and banding can be produced by incomplete segregation of minerals during recrystallization, or they can be inherited from preexisting beds in sedimentary rocks or preexisting layers in igneous rocks. The precious minerals can form as the result of recrystallization when the rocks undergoing metamorphism are subjected to changes in pressure and temperature.

Thesaurus

Adj.	1.	metamorphic - of or relating to metamorphosis (especially of rocks); "metamorphic stage"; "marble is a metamorphic rock that takes a high polish" metamorphous
	2.	metamorphic - characterized by metamorphosis or change in physical form or substance nonmetamorphic - not metamorphic