1. plural of fossilization; the process by which organic remains are converted into fossils through burial and chemical alteration over geological time
Usage: technical/scientific; typically used in geology and paleontology
2. plural of fossilization; the process of becoming rigid, outdated, or unable to change; stagnation
Usage: figurative; commonly used in social, cultural, or organizational contexts

Examples

• The fossilizations of ancient sea creatures reveal much about prehistoric ocean life.
• Different fossilizations occur depending on the mineral content of the surrounding sediment.
• The company's fossilizations of outdated business practices prevented it from competing with newer rivals.
• Cultural fossilizations can occur when traditions resist modernization.
• Paleontologists study various fossilizations to understand how organisms are preserved.
• The fossilizations of rigid hierarchies in the organization made it difficult to adapt to change.