porphyry Definition
- 1a hard igneous rock containing crystals, typically of feldspar, in a fine-grained, typically reddish groundmass.
- 2a very hard stone used for columns, paving, and other construction purposes
Using porphyry: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "porphyry" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The ancient Egyptians used porphyry to make statues and sarcophagi.
Example
The columns of St. Peter's Basilica in Rome are made of porphyry.
Example
Porphyry is often used as a decorative stone in architecture and landscaping.
porphyry Synonyms and Antonyms
Phrases with porphyry
Example
The mine produces porphyry copper, which is then processed into copper concentrate.
Example
The museum has a collection of porphyry statues from ancient Rome.
Example
The town square was paved with porphyry, giving it a distinctive look.
Origins of porphyry
from Latin 'porphyra', meaning 'purple fish', referring to the purple color of the rock
Summary: porphyry in Brief
Porphyry [pawr-fuh-ree] is a hard igneous rock with crystals of feldspar in a fine-grained, reddish groundmass. It is used for construction purposes such as columns and paving, and is often used decoratively in architecture and landscaping. Porphyry is also associated with copper deposits, known as porphyry copper.
