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Glite Dictionary
epilith

epilith

9.9
A plant or fungus that grows on rocks
  • noun
  • /ˈɛpɪlɪθ/
  • Specialized
: epilito
  • Mosses are a common type of epilith found on shaded rock surfaces.

Examples

  • The scientist noted the presence of an unusual epilith thriving on the granite outcrop.

  • The epilith clung tightly to the rock surface.

  • Lichens are often studied as an epilith because of their ability to grow on bare stone.

  • Some epiliths can survive in extreme conditions.

  • Lichens are often studied as an epilith because they can thrive on bare rock surfaces.

  • Mosses are a common type of epilith that grows on shaded areas of rocks.

  • The researcher discovered a unique epilith growing on the side of the cliff.

Surface Forms

epilith singular
epiliths plural

Morphology

epilith = epi + lith

The meaning ('on/upon stone') is compositionally clear from the combining forms epi- + lith, but both elements are bound Greek combining forms rather than standalone English words, so an average B1 learner is unlikely to infer the meaning without knowledge of such morphemes.

Etymology

Epilith comes from Greek parts epi- 'upon' and lith 'stone', the same 'lith' in monolith, a single big stone. So an epilith is a living thing that grows 'on a rock'.