orthoclase

noun

or·tho·clase ˈȯr-thə-ˌklās

-ˌklāz

: a monoclinic mineral of the feldspar group consisting of a silicate of potassium and aluminum

Etymology

German Orthoklas, from orth- + Greek klasis breaking, from klan to break — more at clast

First Known Use

1849, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler

The first known use of orthoclase was in 1849

See more words from the same year

Style

“Orthoclase.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/orthoclase. Accessed 23 Nov. 2024.

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orthoclase

noun

or·tho·clase ˈȯr-thə-ˌklās

-ˌklāz

: a mineral consisting especially of potassium feldspar

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