Calcify
/ˈkæl.sɪ.faɪ/noun
To become hardened or to cause to become hardened by the deposition of calcium salts.
Did you know?The term 'calcify' evokes ancient practices of alchemy, where the process of calcination symbolized transformation and purification through fire.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*kal-
“to be warm, to be hot; associated with heat and fire.”
Latin
Latin
calx
“lime, limestone; the ashes from burning, symbolizing transformation.”
Late Latin
Late Latin
calcificare
“to make lime or to harden; a process of solidifying substances.”
Middle English
Middle English
calcifien
“to harden or solidify, particularly in reference to bones and minerals.”
Modern English
English
calcify
“to become hardened through the deposition of calcium salts, commonly applied in biological contexts.”
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