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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.


rottenstone British  
/ ˈrɒtənˌstəʊn /

noun

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

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Etymology

Origin of rottenstone

First recorded in 1670–80; rotten + stone


Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

See Examples For:

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

From "Chains" by Laurie Halse Anderson

A very good general polish for brass may be made of 1/2 a lb. of rottenstone and 1 oz. of oxalic acid, with as much water as will make it into a stiff paste.

From Practical Suggestions for Mother and Housewife by Marion Mills Miller

Pulverize the oxalic acid and add rouge and rottenstone, mixing thoroughly, and sift to remove all grit; then add gradually the palm oil and petrolatum, incorporating thoroughly.

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

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

When Tsanunewa ran home to his grandmother, frightened because he had seen Hehku, Hehku went out of the trap, crushed red rottenstone, painted her face, made it blood color.

From Creation Myths of Primitive America In relation to the Religious History and Mental Development of Mankind by Jeremiah Curtin

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