Troglyph
/ˈtrɒɡ.lɪf/noun
A term used in geology to describe a type of rock formation resembling a cave or hollow.
Did you know?The term 'Troglyph' is derived from roots meaning 'to gnaw' and 'to carve', hinting at the ancient belief that caves were homes to creatures that shaped the earth.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Greek
Greek
τρογύλος (trogulos)
“To gnaw or gnawing creature.”
Ancient Greek
Greek
γλύφω (glypho)
“To carve or engrave, often associated with shaping materials.”
Latin
Latin
troglodyta
“Cave-dweller, often referring to mythical beings living in caves.”
16th Century
English
Troglydyte
“An adaptation of the Latin term, used to describe cave-dwelling people or creatures.”
19th Century
English
Troglyph
“Coined in geology to refer to rock formations that resemble caves.”
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