: volcanic glass that has a concentric structure, appears as if composed of concretions, is usually grayish and sometimes spherulitic, and when heated expands to form a lightweight aggregate used especially in concrete and plaster and as a medium for potting plants
Examples of perlite in a Sentence
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Improve soil drainage by using amendments like perlite or large bark.
—
Madeline Buiano, Martha Stewart, 8 June 2026
When pouring perlite out of the bag, wear a mask and eye protection to prevent any dust that floats in the air from irritating your eyes, nose, or throat.
—Libby Monteith Minor, Southern Living, 6 June 2026
The building integrates perlite insulation, timber balcony structures, 500 sq m (5,400 sq ft) of photovoltaic panels, and a hybrid gas/heat pump system by Atlantic Systèmes, achieving around 60% energy self-sufficiency in compliance with France's RE2020 2025 [green building] targets.
—Adam Williams
may 28, New Atlas, 28 May 2026
The oil-free, non-comedogenic, chemical formula won’t clog pores, while silica and perlite absorb excess shine, leaving behind a matte finish that keeps midday slickness in check.
—Christa Joanna Lee, Allure, 22 May 2026
See All Example Sentences for perlite
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Madeline Buiano, Martha Stewart, 8 June 2026
When pouring perlite out of the bag, wear a mask and eye protection to prevent any dust that floats in the air from irritating your eyes, nose, or throat.
—Libby Monteith Minor, Southern Living, 6 June 2026
The building integrates perlite insulation, timber balcony structures, 500 sq m (5,400 sq ft) of photovoltaic panels, and a hybrid gas/heat pump system by Atlantic Systèmes, achieving around 60% energy self-sufficiency in compliance with France's RE2020 2025 [green building] targets.
—Adam Williams
may 28, New Atlas, 28 May 2026
The oil-free, non-comedogenic, chemical formula won’t clog pores, while silica and perlite absorb excess shine, leaving behind a matte finish that keeps midday slickness in check.
—Christa Joanna Lee, Allure, 22 May 2026
See All Example Sentences for perlite
Cite this Entry
“Perlite.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/perlite. Accessed 11 Jun. 2026.
Copy CitationKids Definition
perlite
noun
per·lite
ˈpər-ˌlīt 
: a glassy mineral of volcanic origin that when expanded by heat forms a lightweight material capable of absorbing liquids (as water)
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