Bituminoid

/bɪˈtjuːmɪnɔɪd/ adjective

Definition

Resembling or having the characteristics of bitumen; bitumen-like.

Etymology

Combines 'bitumen' with the suffix '-oid,' which comes from Greek 'eidos' meaning 'form' or 'shape.' The suffix creates adjectives meaning 'resembling' or 'similar to.'

Kelly Says

Geologists use the term 'bituminoid' to describe coal that looks and behaves like bitumen but isn't quite the real thing—it's like nature's practice run!

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