petrify means

Sat, 02 May 2026 18:26:29 +0000

Petrify Meaning: What It Means, Usage, and Examples The word petrify carries powerful imagery and deep significance, often used in both literal and figurative contexts. Whether you’re exploring its literal definition or uncovering its metaphorical use, understanding petrify can enrich your vocabulary and expression. ### What Does Petrify Mean? Literal Definition:
To petrify means to turn or transform someone or something into stone, typically through a sudden, often mystical or magical process. In nature, petrification describes how organic material — such as wood or bones — slowly becomes fossilized over thousands or millions of years by mineral replacement. This process turns soft tissue into stone-like rock, preserving ancient life forms for future generations.