Calcify (verb)

1. To become converted into a substance that is mostly or entirely calcium carbonate or calcium phosphate as a result of a chemical process in living organisms (such as the deposition of calcium salts in bone or other tissues).
2. To cause to become hard and stiffened like bone as a result of the deposit of calcium salts.

Origin:

From latin calx, calc- lime, from calcare to tread, from calx heel.

Examples:

1. The artery had calcified and was blocking blood flow.
2. The joint had calcified, making movement difficult.
3. The teeth were calcified, making them more resistant to decay.
4. The coral reefs were calcified and were more resistant to erosion.
5. The organ had calcified, it was hard and stiffened like bone.