Stalactite

usgb/stəˈlæktaɪt/
noun

A pointed structure that hangs down from the roof of a cave, formed from minerals dissolved in water.

The cave was filled with beautiful stalactites.
Visual representation of "stalactite" - A pointed structure that hangs down from the roof of a cave, formed from minerals dissolved in water.

Often appears as...

  • hanging stalactite
  • cave stalactite
Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "stalactite"
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Visual Imagery

Imagine stalactites as icicle-like formations, but made from rock, not ice.

Illustration for Visual Imagery
Stalactites decorated the cave ceiling like stone icicles.
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Formation Process

Stalactites form over centuries, so they symbolize a slow natural process.

Illustration for Formation Process
Each stalactite is a time capsule, recording centuries of mineral deposits.
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Not Stalagmite

Don't confuse stalactites with stalagmites, which grow upward from the cave floor.

Illustration for Not Stalagmite
The stalactite met its counterpart, a stalagmite, half way to form a column.
Visual representation of the word "Stalactite"

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