mica

noun

mi·​ca ˈmī-kə 

: any of various colored or transparent mineral silicates crystallizing in monoclinic forms that readily separate into very thin leaves

micaceous

mī-ˈkā-shəs 

adjective

Examples of mica in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

And while an infusion of vitamin E locks in moisture and repairs chapped lips, the addition of ethically sourced, light-reflecting blue mica gives lips an ultra-subtle blue shine, which cancels out yellow in teeth, to instantly enhance the appearance of a whiter smile. —Emily Cegielski, Flow Space, 5 Dec. 2024

Light-reflecting mica and antioxidant-rich blue and red algae extracts moisturize, plump, and protect your skin against environmental aggressors. —Jennifer Hussein, Allure, 21 Nov. 2024

Granite can be of various colors, dotted with the black mica nests. —David Bressan, Forbes, 31 Oct. 2024

These prints sometimes included mica dust to give them their sparkling effect, which Grand Seiko has achieved with entirely different techniques on the SBGA509 and SBGA507. —Allen Farmelo, Robb Report, 1 Aug. 2024

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from Latin, grain, crumb; perhaps akin to Greek mikros small

First Known Use

1777, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

mica

noun

mi·​ca ˈmī-kə 

: any of various minerals that contain silicon and can be separated easily into thin often transparent sheets

Medical Definition

mica

noun

mi·​ca ˈmī-kə 

: any of various colored or transparent mineral silicates crystallizing in monoclinic forms that readily separate into very thin leaves

micaceous

mī-ˈkā-shəs 

adjective