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gangue

noun
\ˈgaŋ \

Definition of gangue 

: the worthless rock or vein matter in which valuable metals or minerals occur

First Known Use of gangue

1809, in the meaning defined above

History and Etymology for gangue

borrowed from French, going back to Middle French, borrowed from German Gang "walk, course, passageway, mineral vein or seam," going back to Old High German gang "walk, course" — more at gang entry 1

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The first known use of gangue was in 1809

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Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about gangue

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