cipolin

noun

cipo·​lin

ˈsipələ̇n,

¦sēpə¦laⁿ

variants or cipollino

ˌchēpəˈlē(ˌ)nō

plural -s

: a light-colored Roman marble containing layers of micaceous minerals and abundant silicates

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from French & Italian; French cipolin, cipollin, borrowed from Italian (marmo) cipollino, from cipollino, masculine variant of cipollina, diminutive of cipolla "onion"; so called because the marble's wavy veins suggest the layers of an onion

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now