pyrolusite

noun

py·​ro·​lu·​site ˌpī-rō-ˈlü-ˌsīt How to pronounce pyrolusite (audio)
: a soft black or steel-gray mineral of metallic luster consisting of manganese dioxide that is the most important ore of manganese

Word History

Etymology

German Pyrolusit, from Greek pyr- + lousis washing, from louein to wash — more at lye

First Known Use

1828, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of pyrolusite was in 1828

Dictionary Entries Near pyrolusite

Cite this Entry

“Pyrolusite.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/pyrolusite. Accessed 18 Mar. 2024.

Kids Definition

pyrolusite

noun
py·​ro·​lu·​site ˌpī-rō-ˈlü-ˌsīt How to pronounce pyrolusite (audio)
: a mineral consisting of manganese dioxide that is of an iron-black or dark steel-gray color and metallic luster, is usually soft, and is the most important ore of manganese

More from Merriam-Webster on pyrolusite

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!