pyrite

noun

py·​rite ˈpī-ˌrīt How to pronounce pyrite (audio)
: a common mineral that consists of iron disulfide, has a pale brass-yellow color and metallic luster, and is burned in making sulfur dioxide and sulfuric acid

Examples of pyrite in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Finding ancient fossils that pyrite has preserved is rare because the process requires specific conditions: organic material, iron, and a lack of oxygen. Paul Smaglik, Discover Magazine, 29 Oct. 2024 Unlucky for the wee beast, yes, but the circumstances of its demise proved fortunate for paleontologists: Its body was encased in iron-rich, oxygen-poor sediment that fostered the formation of the mineral pyrite, also called fool’s gold, fossilizing the arthropod in opulent fashion. Christie Wilcox, science.org, 30 Oct. 2024 When iron is also present, the hydrogen sulfide reacts with iron to form pyrite, which is iron sulfide. Paul Smaglik, Discover Magazine, 29 Oct. 2024 In this process, the organic material of an organism’s body is replaced by pyrite over time. Margherita Bassi, Smithsonian Magazine, 31 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for pyrite 

Word History

Etymology

Latin pyrites

First Known Use

1741, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of pyrite was in 1741

Dictionary Entries Near pyrite

Cite this Entry

“Pyrite.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/pyrite. Accessed 23 Dec. 2024.

Kids Definition

pyrite

noun
py·​rite ˈpī-ˌrīt How to pronounce pyrite (audio)
: a common mineral that consists of iron combined with sulfur, has a pale brass-yellow color and metallic luster, and is used especially in making sulfuric acid

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