lithifying

/ˈlɪθɪfaɪɪŋ/
verb
  1. The process of turning into rock or becoming rock-like.
    • The lithifying sediment gradually lost its water and became solid stone.
    • Scientists observed the lithifying effects of pressure on the seafloor mud.
    • Lithifying layers of volcanic ash can form a hard rock called tuff.
adjective
  1. Describing something that is in the process of turning into rock.
    • The lithifying sandstone still contained some soft pockets of clay.
    • They studied the lithifying layers in the ancient river delta.
    • The lithifying material was too fragile to be cut into building blocks.
Antonyms