neptunian

2 definitions found

neptunian - Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48 :

  Neptunian \Nep*tu"ni*an\, prop. a. [L. Neptunius belonging to
     Neptune: cf. F. neptunien.]
     1. Of or pertaining to the ocean or sea.
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     2. (Geol.) Formed by water or aqueous solution; as, Neptunian
        rocks.
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     Neptunian races (Ethnol.), the Malay and Polynesian races.
        
  
     Neptunian theory (Geol.), the theory of Werner, which
        referred the formation of all rocks and strata to the
        agency of water; -- opposed to the Plutonic theory.
        [1913 Webster] Neptunian

  Neptunian \Nep*tu"ni*an\, Neptunist \Nep"tu*nist\, prop. n. [Cf.
     F. neptinien, neptuniste.] (Geol.)
     One who adopts the Neptunian theory.
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