Etymology: cet- + otolite “ear bone”
: a fossil bone of a whale; usually : one of the often detached and well-preserved tympanic or petrosal bones
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cetotolite Palæont.(sɪˈtɒtəlaɪt)
[f. Gr. κῆτος whale + οὖς (ωτ-) ear + λίθος stone (see -lite).]
A name given to fossil ear-bones, found with associated cetaceous remains, in the Red Crag of Suffolk, where they are extensively used for the manufacture of superphosphate of potash.
Useful english dictionary. 2012.