pyrrhotite

[pir-uh-tahyt]

noun

1. a common mineral, iron sulfide, approximately FeS but variable because of a partial absence of ferrous ions, occurring in massive and in crystal forms with a bronze color and metallic luster; magnetic pyrites: generally slightly magnetic.

pyrrhotite

/ ˈpɪrəˌtiːn, ˈpɪrəˌtaɪt, -tɪn, -ˌtaɪn /

noun

1. a common bronze-coloured magnetic mineral consisting of ferrous sulphide in hexagonal crystalline form. Formula: FeS

Word History and Origins

Origin of pyrrhotite¹

1868; < Greek pyrrhót ( ēs ) redness + -ite ¹

Word History and Origins

Origin of pyrrhotite¹

C19: from Greek purrhotēs redness, from purrhos fiery, from pur fire

Example Sentences

Around 2,000 homes in the state that were built with an iron sulfide known as pyrrhotite will need their foundation replaced, MassLive.com reported Wednesday.

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“We need a better understanding of the scope of the crisis and of the mineral pyrrhotite.”

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Often described as a “slow-moving disaster,” the problem is caused by an iron sulfide known as pyrrhotite, which causes concrete to crack and break gradually as it becomes exposed to water and oxygen.

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In her book “Lorna Simpson Collages,” from last year, she embellishes vintage photos of models, giving them hairdos made of nightshade-colored plumes and nuggets of pyrrhotite, linking the stylized to the fecund and the surreal.

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Friday’s bills would improve quarry standards, require sellers to disclose issues with pyrrhotite, and require homeowners insurance policies cover the peril of collapse, something the industry opposes, saying it will increase insurance costs.

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