metamict

adjective

meta·​mict

ˈmetəˌmikt

of a mineral

: amorphous because of the disruption of the crystal structure by radiation from contained or nearby radioactive atoms

Word History

Etymology

meta- + Greek miktos mixed, compounded, verbal of mignynai, meignynai to mix

Love words?

You must — there are over 200,000 words in our free online dictionary, but you are looking for one that’s only in the Merriam-Webster Unabridged Dictionary.

Start your free trial today and get unlimited access to America's largest dictionary, with:

• More than 250,000 words that aren't in our free dictionary
• Expanded definitions, etymologies, and usage notes
• Advanced search features
• Ad free!