METAMORPHIC

metamorphic

(adjective) characterized by metamorphosis or change in physical form or substance

metamorphic, metamorphous

(adjective) of or relating to metamorphosis (especially of rocks); “metamorphic stage”; “marble is a metamorphic rock that takes a high polish”

Source: WordNet® 3.1

Etymology

Adjective

metamorphic

Characterised by or exhibiting a change in form or character. [from 19th c.]

(geology) Pertaining to metamorphism; having been structurally altered as a result of, or resulting from, exposure to intense heat and/or pressure (at the contact zone between colliding plates, for example). [from 19th c.]

(zoology) Pertaining to metamorphosis. [from 19th c.]

Of or relating to the Metamorphic Technique, a form of massage influenced by reflexology.

Noun

metamorphic (plural metamorphics)

(mineralogy) A rock that has been changed from its original form by subjection to heat and/or pressure.

Source: Wiktionary

Met`a*mor"phic, a. Etym: [See Metamorphosis.]

1. Subject to change; changeable; variable.

2. Causing a change of structure.

3. (Geol.)

Definition: Pertaining to, produced by, or exhibiting, certain changes which minerals or rocks may have undergone since their original deposition; -- especially applied to the recrystallization which sedimentary rocks have undergone through the influence of heat and pressure, after which they are called metamorphic rocks.

Source: Webster’s Unabridged Dictionary 1913 Edition