metamorphism
(mɛtəˈmɔːfɪz(ə)m)
[Formed as metamorphic + -ism.]
1. Geol. The process of change of form or structure produced in a rock by various natural agencies; the quality of being metamorphic.
| 1845 Encycl. Metrop. VI. 564/1 By the metamorphism of the chalk into the characters of primary limestone. 1854 Woodward Mollusca ii. 223 Shell impunctate: Prof{supr}. King attributes this to metamorphism. 1865 Page Geol. Terms s.v., This change, or metamorphism, whether produced by heat, pressure, or chemical agency, has conferred upon them [sc. the crystalline schists] the term of Metamorphic rocks. |
2. The process of metamorphosis (of an insect).
| 1866 Tate Brit. Mollusks iv. 153 An insect in its second stage of metamorphism. |