zeolite

noun

ze·​o·​lite ˈzē-ə-ˌlīt 

: any of various hydrous silicates that are analogous in composition to the feldspars, occur as secondary minerals in cavities of lavas, and can act as ion-exchangers

also : any of various natural or synthesized silicates of similar structure used especially in water softening and as adsorbents and catalysts

zeolitic

ˌzē-ə-ˈli-tik 

adjective

Examples of zeolite in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The quartz and zeolite would have removed heavy metals like mercury and other toxins from the reservoir's water supply, including harmful microbes. —Jennifer Ouellette, Ars Technica, 9 Oct. 2023

Its hero ingredient is crystalline zeolite (a naturally absorbent ingredient) that absorbs excess oil while also creating a matte texture and a piece-y effect to the hair. —Rebecca Norris, Peoplemag, 1 Nov. 2023

In her latest paper, Lucero points out that zeolite is typically found in volcanic deposits in highland Guatemala and would not have been readily available to residents of the southern lowlands. —Jennifer Ouellette, Ars Technica, 9 Oct. 2023

Moreover, it's infused with skincare ingredients like zeolite, tourmaline, vitamin C, and mineralized beads. —Wendy Vazquez, Better Homes & Gardens, 16 Dec. 2023

This product makes hair look incredible, in large part thanks to sea buckthorn berry, which adds hydration and nourishes the hair, as well as zeolite and rice starch to add grit for noticeable texture. —Rebecca Norris, Peoplemag, 1 Nov. 2023

Southeast Los Angeles yards are plagued by toxic lead from the closed Exide Technologies battery recycling plant — and a dusting of zeolite could help. —Sammy Roth, Los Angeles Times, 9 May 2023

This includes chelating agents such as EDTA, phosphates, zeolites, polyphosphates, and others. —Amber Smith, Discover Magazine, 8 Apr. 2023

The carbon scrubber, a long silver box filled with mineral zeolites that adsorb carbon dioxide, could fail, causing gas levels to rise to dizzying heights, and compromising the cognitive processing of those locked inside. —Jessica Camille Aguirre, Harper's Magazine, 11 Jan. 2022

Word History

Etymology

Swedish zeolit, from Greek zein to boil + -o- + Swedish -lit -lite, from French -lite — more at yeast

First Known Use

1770, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

zeolite

noun

ze·​o·​lite ˈzē-ə-ˌlīt 

: any of various hydrous silicates that can act as ion exchangers

also : any of various natural or synthesized silicates of similar structure used in water softening and as adsorbents

zeolitic

ˌzē-ə-ˈlit-ik 

adjective