calcic
|cal/cic|
/ˈkælsɪk/
of or relating to lime/calcium
Etymology
'calcic' originates from New Latin 'calcicus', ultimately from Latin 'calx, calcis' meaning 'lime' (calcium carbonate), with the adjectival suffix '-ic' (from Greek '-ikos' via Latin).
'calcic' developed from New Latin 'calcicus' (used in scientific contexts) which itself was formed from Latin 'calx' ('lime'); the scientific adjective entered English in the modern period (19th–20th century) in geology and soil science.
Initially it meant 'of or relating to lime (calcium/limestone)'; over time it has come to be used more broadly in scientific contexts to mean 'containing or characterized by calcium (or calcium carbonate)', including a specific sense referring to soil horizons ('calcic horizon').
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adjective 1
relating to, containing, or characterized by calcium or calcium compounds (especially lime or calcium carbonate).
Many agricultural regions have calcic soils that require specific management because of their high calcium content.
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Adjective 2
in soil science and geology: describing a horizon or layer in which secondary calcium carbonate has accumulated (a 'calcic horizon').
The soil profile exhibited a distinct calcic horizon at about 60 cm depth.
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Last updated: 2026/01/14 06:13