humite

noun

hum·​ite
ˈhyüˌmīt
plural -s
: a white, yellow, brown, or red mineral Mg7Si3O12(F1OH)2 consisting of a basic magnesium silicate containing fluorine that is brittle and of vitreous to resinous luster, that is found in the masses ejected from Vesuvius and elsewhere, and is related to chondrodite, norbergite, and olivine (hardness 6.–6.5; specific gravity 3.1–3.2)

Word History

Etymology

Sir Abraham Hume †1838 English mineral collector + English -ite

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

Dictionary Entries Near humite

Cite this Entry

“Humite.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/humite. Accessed 21 Dec. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!