diatomite

noun

di·​at·​o·​mite dī-ˈa-tə-ˌmīt How to pronounce diatomite (audio)

Word History

First Known Use

1887, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of diatomite was in 1887

Dictionary Entries Near diatomite

Cite this Entry

“Diatomite.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/diatomite. Accessed 24 Apr. 2024.

Kids Definition

diatomite

noun
di·​at·​o·​mite dī-ˈat-ə-ˌmīt How to pronounce diatomite (audio)

Medical Definition

diatomite

noun
di·​at·​o·​mite dī-ˈat-ə-ˌmīt How to pronounce diatomite (audio)
: a light friable siliceous material derived chiefly from diatom remains and used especially as a filter

called also diatomaceous earth

More from Merriam-Webster on diatomite

Love words? Need even more definitions?

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