Bathylith

/ˈbæθɪˌlɪθ/ noun

Definition

A massive body of intrusive igneous rock, usually granitic, that formed by cooling slowly beneath Earth's surface over millions of years.

Etymology

From Greek 'bathos' (depth) + 'lithos' (stone). Coined in the early 20th century to describe large underground rock formations.

Kelly Says

The Sierra Nevada mountains are essentially a giant bathylith exposed to daylight—it took 100 million years to cool underground before erosion unveiled it!

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