rottenstone

American  

[rot-n-stohn] / ˈrɒt nˌstoʊn /

noun

1. a friable stone resulting from the decomposition of a siliceous limestone, used as a powder for polishing metals.

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rottenstone British  

/ ˈrɒtənˌstəʊn /

noun

1. a much-weathered limestone, rich in silica: used in powdered form for polishing metal

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Etymology

Origin of rottenstone

First recorded in 1670–80; rotten + stone

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

rottenstone

I was kneeling on the other side of it, polishing the lock with an oily rag and rottenstone.

From "Chains" by Laurie Halse Anderson

One of the Very Best Scouring Pastes Consists of—Oxalic acid, 1 part; Iron peroxide, 15 parts; Powdered rottenstone, 20 parts; Palm oil, 60 parts; Petrolatum, 4 parts.

From Burroughs' Encyclopaedia of Astounding Facts and Useful Information, 1889 by Barkham Burroughs

Tripoli and rottenstone are light, porous, siliceous rocks which have resulted from the leaching of calcareous materials from various siliceous limestones or calcareous cherts in the process of weathering.

From The Economic Aspect of Geology by C. K. (Charles Kenneth) Leith

Brass lamps may be cleaned with oil and rottenstone every day when trimmed.

From The Book of Household Management by Mrs. (Isabella Mary) Beeton

A "Paste" Metal Polish for Cleaning and Polishing Brass.—Oxalic acid 1 part, iron peroxide 15 parts, powdered rottenstone 20 parts, palm oil 60 parts, petrolatum 4 parts.

From Burroughs' Encyclopaedia of Astounding Facts and Useful Information, 1889 by Barkham Burroughs