variolite

noun

var·​i·​o·​lite
ˈverēəˌlīt,
ˈva(a)r-
plural -s
: a basic rock embedded with whitish spherules

Word History

Etymology

probably from New Latin variolites, from Medieval Latin variola pustule, pox + Latin -ites -ite

First Known Use

1781, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of variolite was in 1781

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Dictionary Entries Near variolite

Cite this Entry

“Variolite.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/variolite. Accessed 21 Dec. 2024.

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