aphanite

noun

aph·​a·​nite
ˈafəˌnīt,
usually -t + V
plural -s
: a dark rock of such close texture that its separate grains are invisible to the naked eye
aphanitic
¦afə¦nitik
adjective
aphanitism
ˈafəˌnītˌizəm;
əˈfanəˌtiz-
aˈ-
noun
plural -s

Word History

Etymology

French, from aphan- + -ite

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

  1. Expanded definitions
  2. Detailed etymologies
  3. Advanced search tools
  4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now

Dictionary Entries Near aphanite

Cite this Entry

“Aphanite.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/aphanite. Accessed 26 Dec. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!