Iceland spar

noun

: a birefringent transparent colorless variety of calcite

Examples of Iceland spar in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Research suggests minerals such as Iceland spar could polarize sunlight and help determine solar position even in poor visibility. Kaif Shaikh, Interesting Engineering, 30 May 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1771, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of Iceland spar was in 1771

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Cite this Entry

“Iceland spar.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Iceland%20spar. Accessed 8 Jun. 2026.

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