vivianite

noun

viv·​i·​an·​ite
ˈvivēəˌnīt
plural -s
: a mineral Fe3(PO4)2.8H2O consisting of a hydrous ferrous phosphate that has limited isomorphism with annabergite, erythrite, and koettigite, is colorless when unaltered or blue to green when unaltered but grows darker on exposure, and occurs in monoclinic crystals or fibrous, massive, and earthy (hardness 1.5–2; specific gravity, 2.58–2.68)

Word History

Etymology

German vivianit, from J. G. Vivian, 19th century English mineralogist + German -it -ite

Love words?

You must — there are over 200,000 words in our free online dictionary, but you are looking for one that’s only in the Merriam-Webster Unabridged Dictionary.

Start your free trial today and get unlimited access to America's largest dictionary, with:

  • More than 250,000 words that aren't in our free dictionary
  • Expanded definitions, etymologies, and usage notes
  • Advanced search features
  • Ad free!

Dictionary Entries Near vivianite

Cite this Entry

“Vivianite.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/vivianite. Accessed 5 Nov. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

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