das Gestein
Translation
rock, stone
Examples
Dieses Gestein ist sehr alt.
This rock is very old.
Der Geologe untersucht das Gestein.
The geologist is examining the rock.
Das Gestein enthält Mineralien.
The rock contains minerals.
Grammar Patterns
((the rock)) as subject/object The geologist analyzes the rock.
Similar Words
Synonym: der Fels (cliff, rock face); Note: 'Stein' is a single stone, 'Gestein' is the material.
Etymology
Composed of the collective prefix 'ge-' and 'Stein' (stone). It literally means a mass or collection of stone, i.e., rock as a material.
Memory Tips
The prefix 'ge-' often indicates a collection. 'Gestein' is a collection of 'Stein' (stone), which makes it 'rock' in a geological sense.