An Etymological Dictionary of Astronomy and Astrophysics

A relic, remnant, or representation of an organism that existed in a past geological age.

Etymology (EN): From Fr. fossile, from L. fossilis “dug up,” from fossus, p.p. of fodere “to dig.”

Etymology (PE): Sangâré literally “resembling stone,” from sang, → stone, + -vâré, from -vâr, → -oid.