# fossilized

/ˈfɑsəˌɫaɪzd/ (US) · CEFR B2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/fossilized
Updated: 2026-10-17

## Definition

turned into a fossil after being buried for a very long time. You also use it for ideas or habits that are very old and never change.

For teachers: converted into fossil form through mineral replacement over geological time. Extended figuratively to attitudes, habits, or language forms fixed and resistant to change.

## Examples

- The museum shows fossilized bones from dinosaurs.
- The guide shows visitors a fossilized leaf preserved in the rock for millions of years.
- His fossilized views on work never shift, even as younger colleagues reshape the office around flexible hours and remote collaboration.

## Synonyms

petrified, inflexible, rigid, unchanging, ossified, entrench

## Antonyms

flexible, evolve, dynamic

## Usage notes

- Often used both before a noun and after 'be' or 'become' to describe something fixed.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.