cancrinite

noun

can·​cri·​nite
-ˌnīt
plural -s
: a mineral (Na2,Ca)4(AlSiO4)6CO3.nH2O consisting of an aluminosilicate and carbonate of sodium and calcium occurring in igneous rocks usually as transparent to translucent masses of various colors (hardness 5–6, specific gravity 2.42–2.5)

Word History

Etymology

German cancrinit, from Count Georg Cancrin †1845 Russian statesman + German -it -ite

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Cite this Entry

“Cancrinite.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cancrinite. Accessed 22 Dec. 2024.

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