fossil
UK: ˈfɒs.əl | US: ˈfɑː.səl
n. The preserved remains or traces of ancient organisms, typically embedded in rock.
n. (figurative) A person or thing outdated or resistant to change.
The word fossil originates from Latin fossilis, meaning "dug up." It reflects the process of unearthing preserved organic remains from the earth. Over time, its meaning expanded metaphorically to describe anything antiquated or unchanging, mirroring the static nature of geological relics.
The museum displayed a dinosaur fossil discovered in Montana.
Coal is formed from plant fossils buried millions of years ago.
His ideas were dismissed as fossilized remnants of the past.
Paleontologists study fossils to understand prehistoric life.
The fossil record provides evidence of evolution.