(n)the process of turning some plant material into stone by infiltration with water carrying mineral particles without changing the original shape, Syn.petrification
n. [ See Petrify. ] 1. The process of petrifying, or changing into stone; conversion of any organic matter (animal or vegetable) into stone, or a substance of stony hardness. [ 1913 Webster ]
2. The state or condition of being petrified. [ 1913 Webster ]
3. That which is petrified; popularly, a body incrusted with stony matter; an incrustation. [ 1913 Webster ]
4. Fig.: Hardness; callousness; obduracy. “Petrifaction of the soul.” Cudworth. [ 1913 Webster ]