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gangue

noun
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\ ˈgaŋ How to pronounce gangue (audio) \

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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Dictionary Entries Near gangue

Gangtok

gangue

gang up

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Cite this Entry

“Gangue.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/gangue. Accessed 26 Jan. 2022.

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More from Merriam-Webster on gangue

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about gangue

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