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Petrous - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

Petrous refers to something resembling or related to rock, especially in hardness or density. It is often used in anatomy to describe the dense part of the temporal bone in the skull.

petrous

/ˈpɛtrəs/ /ˈpɛtrəs/

Definition:

Relating to or resembling rock, especially the dense part of the temporal bone.

Synonyms:

rocky, stony, hard, flinty

Part of Speech:

adjective

Antonyms:

soft, malleable, pliable

Common Collocations:

petrous bone, petrous ridge, petrous part

Derivatives:

petrosal, petrification

Usage Tips:

Use "petrous" to describe hard, rock-like structures, especially in anatomy (e.g., the temporal bone).

Common Phrases:

petrous bone, petrous part of the temporal bone

Etymology:

From Latin "petrosus," meaning "rocky," derived from "petra" (rock).

Examples:

  • 1. The petrous part of the skull protects delicate inner ear structures.
  • 2. Geologists examined the petrous layers for mineral deposits.
  • 3. The surgeon carefully avoided the petrous ridge during the procedure.
  • 4. His description likened the cliff to a petrous fortress.

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