-phane

1. a combining form occurring in the names of substances, especially minerals, that seem like or have the qualities of that named by the initial element:

   collophane, hydrophane.

-phane

combining form

1. indicating something resembling a specified substance

   cellophane

Word History and Origins

Origin of -phane¹

< Greek -phanēs, adjective derivative of phaínesthai to seem, appear; allophane ( def ), -phany

Word History and Origins

Origin of -phane¹

from Greek phainein to shine, (in passive) appear

Example Sentences

He was married to a giantess called Phane; hence Phanefjord.

From Project Gutenberg