silicate

noun

sil·​i·​cate ˈsi-lə-ˌkāt  -kət 

: a salt or ester derived from a silicic acid

especially : any of numerous insoluble often complex metal salts that contain silicon and oxygen in the anion, constitute the largest class of minerals, and are used in building materials (such as cement, bricks, and glass)

Examples of silicate in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Another wavelength grouping is thought to come from higher in the atmosphere and patchy clouds of silicates. —Robert Lea, Space.com, 3 Mar. 2025

But sodium occurs in many other minerals, including silicates like amphibole, zeolite and the fluorite mineral cryolite. —David Bressan, Forbes, 31 Dec. 2024

Coprolites are fossils, so most organic components have been replaced by mineral deposits like silicate and calcium carbonates. —Ars Technica, 27 Nov. 2024

Their cores are thought to be composed of rocky and metallic material, likely a mix of silicates and iron. —Tom Rogers, Newsweek, 25 Nov. 2024

Word History

Etymology

silicic (acid)

First Known Use

1811, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing silicate

• calcium silicate
• dicalcium silicate

Kids Definition

silicate

noun

sil·​i·​cate ˈsil-i-ˌkāt 

ˈsil-ə-kət

: a chemical salt that consists of a metal combined with silicon and oxygen and is used especially in building materials (as bricks)

Medical Definition

silicate

noun

sil·​i·​cate ˈsil-ə-ˌkāt  ˈsil-i-kət 

: a salt or ester derived from a silicic acid

especially : any of numerous insoluble often complex metal salts that contain silicon and oxygen in the anion and constitute the largest class of minerals