limonite

[ lahy-muh-nahyt ]

noun

, Mineralogy.

1. an amorphous hydrated ferric oxide, varying in color from dark brown to yellow, used as an ore of iron.

limonite

/ ˌlaɪməˈnɪtɪk; ˈlaɪməˌnaɪt /

noun

1. a common brown, black, or yellow amorphous secondary mineral that consists of hydrated ferric oxides and is a source of iron. Formula: FeO(OH). n H 2 O

Derived Forms

• limonitic, adjective

Other Words From

• li·mo·nit·ic [lahy-m, uh, -, nit, -ik], adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of limonite¹

1815–25; < Greek leimṓn meadow + -ite ¹

Word History and Origins

Origin of limonite¹

C19: probably from Greek leimōn, translation of earlier German name, Wiesenerz meadow ore

Example Sentences

Magnetite or magnetic iron ore, specular iron, and limonite are also oxides of iron.

From Project Gutenberg

The streak of limonite is yellow, thus distinguishing it from hematite.

From Project Gutenberg

The powder and streak of limonite are always yellow; it is an important ore.

From Project Gutenberg

In nature it is frequently altered to limonite with the separation of native sulphur.

From Project Gutenberg

Both ferrous carbonate and limonite, however, occur in irregular surface deposits.

From Project Gutenberg