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

The smoothing is done with a lead lap and fine emery, and the polishing may be accomplished by means of a lead lap, whose surface is hacked and supplied with rottenstone and water.

From Scientific American, Volume XLIII., No. 25, December 18, 1880 A Weekly Journal of Practical Information, Art, Science, Mechanics, Chemistry, and Manufactures. by Various

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 Leith, C. K. (Charles Kenneth)

Bath brick or rottenstone may be used for polishing.

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

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

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