Plutonic
/pluːˈtɒn.ɪk/noun
Relating to Pluto, or to deep-seated igneous rocks formed below the Earth’s surface.
Did you know?In geology, plutonic rocks are named for the god Pluto because they form deep underground, away from sunlight, making the word feel almost literally “underworld-born.”
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Greek
Greek
Ploutōn (Πλούτων)
“Name of the god of the underworld and riches”
Classical Latin
Latin
Pluton-
“Form used in learned borrowings referring to Pluto”
17th Century
English
plutonic
“Relating to Pluto or the underworld”
19th Century
English
plutonic
“Used in geology for rocks formed deep beneath the Earth”
Modern English
English
plutonic
“Relating to Pluto or to deep-seated igneous rocks”
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