pyrites

noun

py·​rites pə-ˈrī-tēz 

pī-;

ˈpī-ˌrīts 

plural pyrites

: any of various metallic-looking sulfides of which pyrite is the commonest

pyritic

pə-ˈri-tik 

pī-

adjective

Examples of pyrites in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Certain minerals in the coal, such as sulfides and pyrites, can oxidize and in the process generate enough heat to cause a fire. —Kristin Ohlson, Discover Magazine, 3 Jan. 2011

Word History

Etymology

Latin, flint, from Greek pyritēs of or in fire, from pyr fire

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing pyrites

• copper pyrites
• iron pyrites