Heterochthonous

/ˌhetərɒkˈθɒnəs/ adjective

Definition

Originating or occurring in a place different from where something is found; not native or indigenous to a location.

Etymology

From Greek hetero- (different) + chthonous (of the earth). Geological and anthropological term used since 19th century.

Kelly Says

In geology, a heterochthonous fossil means it washed in from somewhere else, while autochthonous fossils are found in the rock where the organism actually died—this distinction solved murder mysteries in paleontology!

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