pyrite

noun

py·​rite ˈpī-ˌrīt How to pronounce pyrite (audio)
: a common mineral that consists of iron disulfide, has a pale brass-yellow color and metallic luster, and is burned in making sulfur dioxide and sulfuric acid

Examples of pyrite in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Unlucky for the wee beast, yes, but the circumstances of its demise proved fortunate for paleontologists: Its body was encased in iron-rich, oxygen-poor sediment that fostered the formation of the mineral pyrite, also called fool’s gold, fossilizing the arthropod in opulent fashion. Christie Wilcox, science.org, 30 Oct. 2024 When iron is also present, the hydrogen sulfide reacts with iron to form pyrite, which is iron sulfide. Paul Smaglik, Discover Magazine, 29 Oct. 2024 In this process, the organic material of an organism’s body is replaced by pyrite over time. Margherita Bassi, Smithsonian Magazine, 31 Oct. 2024 The heavy density of pyrite also means the fool's gold material thoroughly filled in tiny areas where the arthropod's body once lay in sediment − including internal body parts, scientists said. Claire Thornton, USA TODAY, 30 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for pyrite 

Word History

Etymology

Latin pyrites

First Known Use

1741, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of pyrite was in 1741

Dictionary Entries Near pyrite

Cite this Entry

“Pyrite.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/pyrite. Accessed 3 Dec. 2024.

Kids Definition

pyrite

noun
py·​rite ˈpī-ˌrīt How to pronounce pyrite (audio)
: a common mineral that consists of iron combined with sulfur, has a pale brass-yellow color and metallic luster, and is used especially in making sulfuric acid

More from Merriam-Webster on pyrite

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

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