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Coprolite - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

Coprolite is fossilized animal dung, often studied by scientists to learn about ancient diets and ecosystems. It provides valuable clues about prehistoric life and environmental conditions.

coprolite

/ˈkɑprəlaɪt/ /ˈkɒprəlaɪt/

Definition:

Fossilized feces from ancient animals, used in paleontology to study prehistoric diets.

Synonyms:

fossilized dung, petrified excrement, paleofeces

Part of Speech:

noun

Antonyms:

fresh waste, modern excrement

Common Collocations:

coprolite analysis, coprolite specimen, coprolite research

Derivatives:

coprolitic, coprolith

Usage Tips:

Use "coprolite" in scientific contexts to describe fossilized feces studied by paleontologists.

Common Phrases:

ancient coprolite, study coprolites, coprolite evidence

Etymology:

From Greek "kopros" (dung) + "lithos" (stone), meaning fossilized animal waste.

Examples:

  • 1. The museum displayed a large coprolite from a dinosaur.
  • 2. Scientists analyze coprolites to learn about prehistoric diets.
  • 3. This coprolite contains undigested seeds and bones.
  • 4. Children giggled at the exhibit labeled "fossilized poop."

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