periclase

[ per-i-kleys, -kleyz ]

noun

1. a cubic mineral, native magnesia, MgO, occurring usually in metamorphosed dolomite.

periclase

/ ˈpɛrɪˌkleɪs; ˌpɛrɪˈklæstɪk /

noun

1. a mineral consisting of magnesium oxide in the form of isometric crystals or grains: occurs in metamorphosed limestone

Derived Forms

• periclastic, adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of periclase¹

1835–45; < German Periklas < New Latin periclasia, equivalent to peri- peri- + Greek klás ( is ) a breaking ( -clase ) + -ia -ia

Word History and Origins

Origin of periclase¹

C19: from New Latin periclasia, from Greek peri very + klasis a breaking, referring to its perfect cleavage