1. relating to or resembling a serpent or snake
Usage: archaic; literary
2. describing a rock texture where plagioclase crystals are enclosed by pyroxene crystals
Usage: geology

Examples

• The ophitic texture was clearly visible in the basalt sample under the microscope.
• Geologists identified the ophitic structure in the igneous rock formation.
• The ancient text described the ophitic movements of the creature.
• Ophitic textures are common in diabase and gabbro rocks.
• The mineral’s ophitic arrangement indicated rapid cooling during formation.