1. a soft, decomposed rock that remains in place after chemical weathering
Usage: geology

Examples

• The geologist examined the saprolite layer beneath the topsoil.
• Saprolite forms when bedrock undergoes intense chemical weathering in tropical climates.
• The construction crew had to dig through several feet of saprolite to reach solid bedrock.
• This saprolite still retains the original structure of the parent rock despite being completely decomposed.
• The red clay soil developed from saprolite rich in iron oxides.
• Engineers must consider the stability of saprolite when designing foundations for buildings.