hälleflinta

noun

häl·​le·​flin·​ta

¦helə¦flintə

plural -s

: a very compact banded rock resembling felsite and consisting of minute particles of feldspar and quartz with fine scales of mica and chlorite

hälleflintoid

-ntˌȯid

adjective

Word History

Etymology

Swedish, from hälle- slab, rock (from Old Swedish hællo-, hælla) + flinta flint, from Old Swedish; akin to Old Norse hella cliff, mountain, Gothic hallus cliff, and to Old English flint

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