quartz

noun

ˈkwȯrts 

1

: a mineral consisting of silicon dioxide occurring in colorless and transparent or colored hexagonal crystals or in crystalline masses

2

: a quartz crystal that when placed in an electric field oscillates at a constant frequency and is used to control devices which require precise regulation

a quartz watch

quartzose

ˈkwȯrt-ˌsōs 

adjective

Examples of quartz in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Black-on-black cabinetry and speckled quartz countertops captivate beneath a dual sky light, along with a host of high-end appliances for whipping up meals. —Demetrius Simms, Robb Report, 12 Dec. 2024

In October, the rover came across a field of brilliant white cantaloupe-size rocks, which the vehicle’s instruments confirmed as pure quartz, Farley said. —Ashley Strickland, CNN, 12 Dec. 2024

Notable features: hardwood floors, quartz countertops, soaking tub, open floor plan, large walk-in closets and sleek cabinetry. —Alexis Clinton, Axios, 6 Dec. 2024

Based in Brookfield, Connecticut, the company makes photomasks — quartz plate containing microscopic images of electronic circuits, used in manufacturing semiconductor chips. —John Dorfman, Forbes, 25 Nov. 2024

Word History

Etymology

German Quarz

First Known Use

circa 1631, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing quartz

• fused quartz
• quartz glass
• quartz heater
• quartz-iodine lamp
• smoky quartz

Kids Definition

quartz

noun

ˈkwȯ(ə)rts 

: a common mineral consisting of silicon dioxide that is often found in the form of colorless transparent crystals but is sometimes (as in amethysts, agates, and jaspers) brightly colored

Medical Definition

quartz

noun

ˈkwȯ(ə)rts 

: a mineral SiO₂ consisting of a silica that occurs in colorless and transparent or colored hexagonal crystals and also in crystalline masses