Celtiform

/ˈsɛltɪˌfɔrm/ adjective

Definition

Having the shape or form of a celt (prehistoric tool); resembling a chisel or ax-like implement.

Etymology

From celt (the prehistoric tool) plus the suffix -form (meaning having the shape of). This technical term was created by archaeologists in the 19th century to describe artifact morphology without assuming function.

Kelly Says

Archaeologists realized they couldn't always tell if an ancient stone object was actually used as a tool or maybe had some religious purpose, so they created 'celtiform' to describe the shape without claiming to know what it actually did.

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