Definition of bioleaching
: the extraction of valuable metals (such as copper and gold) from ores through the action of microorganisms (such as bacteria) Until now bioleaching, as the process is known, has been held back by the leisurely pace at which bacteria munch … — Burt Chardak, Miami Herald, 24 May 1992 Bacteria have been used to extract other metals from ore, in a process called bio-leaching. — Lynn Dicks, New Scientist, 17 Apr. 2004
Explore M-W
There's more!
Love words? You must — there are over 200,000 words in our free online dictionary, but you are looking for one that’s only in the Merriam-Webster Unabridged Dictionary.
Start your free trial today and get unlimited access to America's largest dictionary, with:
- More than 250,000 words that aren't in our free dictionary
- Expanded definitions, etymologies, and usage notes
- Advanced search features
- Ad free!
First Known Use of bioleaching
1976
Seen and Heard
What made you want to look up bioleaching? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).
Writing? Check your grammar now!