desert varnish
About Our Definitions: All forms of a word (noun, verb, etc.) are now displayed on one page.
About Our Definitions: All forms of a word (noun, verb, etc.) are now displayed on one page.desert varnish
nounDefinition of DESERT VARNISH
: a dark coating which is found on rocks after long exposure in desert regions and whose color is due to iron and manganese oxides
First Known Use of DESERT VARNISH
circa 1898
desert varnish
noun (Concise Encyclopedia)Thin, dark red to black mineral coating (generally iron and manganese oxides and silica) deposited on pebbles and rocks on the surface of desert regions. As dew and soil moisture brought to the surface by capillary action evaporate, their dissolved minerals are deposited on the surface. Wind abrasion removes the softer salts and polishes the surface to a glossy finish. Both high evaporation rates and sufficient precipitation are necessary for desert varnish to form.
Variants of DESERT VARNISH
desert varnish or patina
Learn More About DESERT VARNISH
Browse
Next Word in the Dictionary: desertward (adverb)
Previous Word in the Dictionary: desert trumpet flower
All Words Near: desert varnish
Previous Word in the Dictionary: desert trumpet flower
All Words Near: desert varnish
Seen & Heard 
What made you want to look up desert varnish? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).
