apatite

noun ap·a·tite \ ˈa-pə-ˌtīt \

Definition of apatite

: any of a group of calcium phosphate minerals occurring in various colors as hexagonal crystals, as granular masses, or in fine-grained masses as the chief constituent of phosphate rock and of bones and teeth; especially : calcium phosphate fluoride

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Recent Examples of apatite from the Web

When uranium decays to lead, a natural process that happens at a steady rate, the split leaves a tiny track in the apatite that is visible under a microscope.

— lisa grossman, WIRED, "Glaciers Help Mountains Grow," 15 Sep. 2010

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'apatite.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Origin and Etymology of apatite

German Apatit, from Greek apatē deceit

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First Known Use: 1794

in the meaning defined above

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Medical Dictionary

apatite

noun ap·a·tite \ ˈap-ə-ˌtīt \

medical Definition of apatite

: any of a group of calcium phosphate minerals occurring variously as hexagonal crystals, as granular masses, or in fine-grained masses as the chief constituent of bones and teeth and of phosphate rock; especially : calcium phosphate fluoride Ca₅F(PO₄)₃