microcline

noun

mi·cro·cline ˈmī-krō-ˌklīn

: a triclinic mineral of the feldspar group that is like orthoclase in composition

Word History

Etymology

German Mikroklin, from mikr- micr- + Greek klinein to lean — more at lean

First Known Use

1849, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler

The first known use of microcline was in 1849

See more words from the same year

Cite this Entry

Style

“Microcline.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/microcline. Accessed 31 Jul. 2025.

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