pyrite

noun

py·​rite ˈpī-ˌrīt 

: a common mineral that consists of iron disulfide, has a pale brass-yellow color and metallic luster, and is burned in making sulfur dioxide and sulfuric acid

Examples of pyrite in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Flecks of mica and pyrite and who knows what, but only fools and greenhorns mistake it for gold. — John Archibald, Southern Living, 11 June 2026

Even the famous ink sac turned out to be a three-dimensional lump enriched with clays and pyrite. — Jacek Krywko, ArsTechnica, 10 Apr. 2026

Admitting that the good life is veined with fool’s gold takes nothing away from the luminous beauty of pyrite. — Jacob Brogan, The Atlantic, 11 June 2026

Acid mine drainage forms when sulfide minerals, such as pyrite, are exposed to air during mining. — Hélène Nguemgaing, Washington Post, 22 Jan. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Latin pyrites

First Known Use

1741, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for pyrite

• arsenopyrite

Kids Definition

pyrite

noun

py·​rite ˈpī-ˌrīt 

: a common mineral that consists of iron combined with sulfur, has a pale brass-yellow color and metallic luster, and is used especially in making sulfuric acid