crocidolite

noun

cro·​cid·​o·​lite krō-ˈsi-də-ˌlīt How to pronounce crocidolite (audio)
: a lavender-blue or light green mineral of the amphibole group that occurs in silky fibers and in massive form and is a type of asbestos compare tigereye

Examples of crocidolite in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web The types that are used in construction are white, blue, and brown varieties, known as chrysotile, crocidolite, and amosite. David Grossman, Popular Mechanics, 7 Aug. 2018

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'crocidolite.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

German Krokydolith, from Greek krokyd-, krokys nap on cloth (akin to Greek krekein to weave) + German -lith -lite — more at reel

First Known Use

1835, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of crocidolite was in 1835

Dictionary Entries Near crocidolite

Cite this Entry

“Crocidolite.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/crocidolite. Accessed 31 Oct. 2024.

Medical Definition

crocidolite

noun
cro·​ci·​do·​lite ˌkrō-ˈsī-də-ˌlīt, -ˈsid-ə- How to pronounce crocidolite (audio)
: a purplish blue to greenish mineral of the amphibole group that causes asbestosis and cancer in the form of mesotheliomas

called also blue asbestos

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