slickens

plural noun

slick·​ens

ˈslikənz

1

a

: the thin layer of extremely fine silt sometimes deposited by flood waters of a stream

b

: finely pulverized material from a quartz mill or washings of lighter earth sluiced away in hydraulic mining

2

: slickenside

Word History

Etymology

probably irregular from slick finely pounded ore, from German schlich slime

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