pitchblende

noun

pitch·​blende ˈpich-ˌblend How to pronounce pitchblende (audio)
: a brown to black mineral that consists of massive uraninite, has a distinctive luster, contains radium, and is the chief ore-mineral source of uranium

Examples of pitchblende 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.
In fact, of the 1,200 tons of pitchblende packed into drums at Shinkolobwe, then shipped to Matadi and New York, the Manhattan Project only purchased the uranium. Big Think, 26 Aug. 2025

Word History

Etymology

partial translation of German Pechblende, from Pech pitch + Blende blende

First Known Use

1770, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of pitchblende was in 1770

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Pitchblende.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/pitchblende. Accessed 10 Sep. 2025.

Kids Definition

pitchblende

noun
pitch·​blende ˈpich-ˌblend How to pronounce pitchblende (audio)
: a brown to black mineral that is a source of uranium and radium

Medical Definition

pitchblende

noun
pitch·​blende ˈpich-ˌblend How to pronounce pitchblende (audio)
: a brown to black mineral that consists of massive uraninite, has a distinctive luster, contains radium, and is the chief ore-mineral source of uranium

More from Merriam-Webster on pitchblende

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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